The Creators of Baldur's Gate 3 Details Its Implementation of Machine Learning for Next Project

The studio behind popular RPGs like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin recently shown its next major project, sparking immense hype within the player base. However, recent remarks from the company's figurehead have introduced a new dimension to the narrative, touching on the team's philosophy toward AI tools.

AI as a Creative Assistant, Not a Substitute

In a new statement, Larian's director detailed that the team is employing generative AI for certain preliminary purposes. These encompass enhancing presentation materials, generating initial artistic references, and creating placeholder dialogue.

Crucially, Vincke made clear that the final material in the game will be authored exclusively by human artists. "Larian is creating everything ourselves," he affirmed.

Larian is actively expanding our roster of storytellers and are busily forming narrative groups.

As concept art is being particularly mentioned — we presently have over twenty artistic staff and have positions available for further artists.

Everything we do is additive and designed to letting our team spend greater focus on the creative process.

Any AI system applied correctly is a boost to a developer's workflow, never a stand-in for their skill.

Tempering Reactions with Clear Intent

The revelation of employing this technology initially sparked unease among some the player base. In reply, Vincke issued further clarification on social media.

"At Larian, we employ AI tools to explore references, just like we use the internet and reference books," he explained. "In the conceptual planning process we use it as a simple sketch for layout which we then swap out with original concept art."

He continued, "Larian brings on creatives for their creative vision, not for their ability to execute what a machine suggests."

Key Areas of AI Integration

Vincke had previously outlined the team's focused approach to machine learning, categorizing its use into three main pillars:

• Handling Monotonous Jobs: Areas like motion capture cleaning, audio processing, and Larian-specific work like adjusting assets for various species.
• Fast-Tracked Experimentation: Using systems to quickly build basic versions of gameplay ideas to test concepts ahead of complete production.
• Future Potential for Gameplay: Investigating how AI could eventually facilitate innovative gameplay, particularly in creating player-driven narratives in a vast role-playing world.

He clearly stated that core creative domains — including visual art — are are in no way areas where the team is replacing creative talent. In fact, Larian is expanding its staff in these precise fields.

"We are not releasing a game with AI-generated content, and we are certainly not considering trimming down creatives to swap them out with artificial intelligence," Vincke concluded.