The Creators of Baldur's Gate 3 Details Its Implementation of Generative AI for Upcoming Project

The studio behind hit RPGs like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin has recently teased its upcoming project, generating a wave of anticipation within the player base. However, recent statements from the studio's co-founder have added clarity to the discussion, touching on the team's philosophy toward generative artificial intelligence.

AI as a Creative Assistant, Not a Substitute

In a new message, Larian's director outlined that the developer is employing generative AI for certain ancillary functions. These involve enhancing presentation materials, producing initial artistic references, and drafting draft dialogue.

Crucially, Vincke emphasized that the final content in the game will be crafted exclusively by human creatives. "Larian is writing everything ourselves," he affirmed.

Our studio is continuously increasing our roster of storytellers and are busily forming writing teams.

As visual development is being specifically mentioned — we currently have 23 visual developers and have job openings for additional talent.

Everything we do is additive and aimed at enabling creatives to spend greater focus on making content.

Any machine learning application used well is a boost to a artist's process, never a stand-in for their craft.

Addressing Concerns and Clarifying the Vision

The news of AI usage initially generated unease among portions of the player base. In response, Vincke offered further clarification on public forums.

"We use AI tools to research ideas, similar to we use the internet and art books," he explained. "During the very early ideation stages we use it as a basic framework for structure which we then replace with hand-crafted concept art."

He continued, "Larian brings on talent for their inherent skill, not for their willingness to replicate what a AI generates."

Three Pillars of Practical Application

Vincke had earlier broken down the team's targeted strategy to AI and ML, defining its use into primary functions:

• Handling Monotonous Jobs: This encompasses motion capture cleaning, audio processing, and technical processes like adapting animations for different models.
• Accelerated Iteration: Using tools to speedily create rough models of gameplay ideas to experiment with concepts before expensive production.
• Experimental Frontiers: Researching how machine learning could in the future enhance emergent player agency, specifically in managing unforeseen permutations in a vast role-playing world.

He clearly affirmed that core creative disciplines — such as music composition — are are in no way fields where the team is reducing human involvement. In fact, Larian is recruiting more in these exact positions.

"Our studio is not launching a game with any AI components, and we are certainly not considering cutting creatives to swap them out with artificial intelligence," Vincke summarized.