The Divinity Developer Explains Its Implementation of Machine Learning for Upcoming Divinity Game
The studio behind acclaimed role-playing games like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin has recently shown its new project, generating immense excitement within the industry. However, recent remarks from the studio's lead designer have brought a new dimension to the conversation, focusing on the developer's approach toward generative artificial intelligence.
AI as a Creative Assistant, Not a Substitute
In a recent message, Swen Vincke outlined that the company is utilizing machine learning for particular preliminary tasks. These encompass fleshing out pitch decks, producing initial visual ideas, and creating temporary dialogue.
Crucially, Vincke emphasized that the end material in the game will be crafted entirely by human artists. "Our team is writing everything ourselves," he stated.
Larian is constantly increasing our roster of storytellers and are currently assembling narrative groups.
Given that visual development is being explicitly mentioned — we currently have 23 concept artists and have roles to fill for further artists.
All our efforts we do is supplementary and focused on letting our team spend more time on making content.
Every machine learning application implemented properly is a boost to a creative team process, never a stand-in for their craft.
Responding to Feedback and Defining the Path
The news of AI usage initially sparked backlash among some the player base. In reply, Vincke provided further elaboration on social media.
"We use machine learning to research ideas, just like we use the internet and reference books," he explained. "In the very early planning process we use it as a rough outline for layout which we then substitute with original illustrations."
He noted, "We've hired artists for their inherent skill, not for their willingness to replicate what a machine suggests."
Three Pillars of Practical Application
Vincke had earlier detailed the studio's targeted method to this technology, categorizing its use into three main areas:
- Handling Monotonous Jobs: This includes refining animations, voice editing, and Larian-specific work like retargeting animations.
- Accelerated Iteration: Using technology to rapidly prototype rough mock-ups of scenarios to validate concepts prior to full production.
- Long-Term Aspirations: Researching how machine learning could one day create new forms of gameplay, particularly in simulating unforeseen permutations in a vast role-playing world.
He specifically affirmed that key artistic domains — including writing — are are in no way areas where the company is reducing artistic talent. Conversely, Larian is expanding its staff in these very positions.
"Larian is not launching a game with AI-generated content, nor considering cutting creatives to substitute them with AI," Vincke concluded.
