The Creators of Baldur's Gate 3 Clarifies Its Application of Generative AI for New Project

The team behind acclaimed RPGs like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin recently teased its next major project, sparking a wave of hype within the industry. However, subsequent comments from the company's figurehead have introduced nuance to the discussion, focusing on the team's stance toward generative artificial intelligence.

A Tool for Ideation, Not Replacement

In a latest message, the studio's founder detailed that the team is using machine learning for particular preliminary tasks. These encompass developing PowerPoint slides, generating rough visual ideas, and drafting temporary copy.

Notably, Vincke made clear that the end assets in the game will be authored solely by real creatives. "We are creating every line manually," he affirmed.

We are continuously growing our roster of storytellers and are busily putting together dedicated writer rooms.

As visual development is being specifically mentioned — we currently have over twenty visual developers and have roles to fill for further creatives.

Each initiative we do is incremental and aimed at having people spend greater focus on actual creation.

Every AI system used well is a boost to a creative team workflow, not a replacement for their talent.

Tempering Reactions with Clear Intent

The revelation of employing this technology initially generated concern among portions of the community. In reaction, Vincke provided further detail on online platforms.

"We use machine learning to gather inspiration, in the same way we use search engines and art books," he stated. "During the conceptual brainstorming phase we use it as a rough outline for composition which we then substitute with authentic artwork."

He noted, "Our studio recruits artists for their inherent skill, not for their capacity to follow what a algorithm proposes."

Three Pillars of Practical Application

Vincke had earlier outlined the team's practical strategy to AI and ML, defining its use into key functions:

• Handling Monotonous Jobs: This includes refining animations, voice editing, and Larian-specific work like adapting animations for different models.
• Fast-Tracked Experimentation: Using technology to speedily create basic versions of gameplay ideas to test concepts prior to complete development.
• Future Potential for Gameplay: Exploring how machine learning could in the future enhance new forms of player agency, specifically in managing dynamic reactions in a detailed game universe.

He explicitly affirmed that key artistic areas — like visual art — are are absolutely not fields where the team is reducing artistic input. Conversely, Larian is recruiting more in these exact fields.

"Our studio is neither launching a game with any AI components, and we are certainly not looking at trimming down creatives to substitute them with artificial intelligence," Vincke stated definitively.