The Divinity Developer Explains Its Application of Generative AI for Next Divinity
The studio behind popular RPGs like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin has recently unveiled its upcoming project, creating immense excitement within the player base. However, follow-up statements from the studio's co-founder have added clarity to the conversation, addressing the team's philosophy toward machine learning.
A Tool for Ideation, Not Replacement
In a latest message, the studio's founder outlined that the developer is employing machine learning for particular ancillary purposes. These encompass fleshing out PowerPoint slides, producing early-stage concept art, and drafting placeholder dialogue.
Importantly, Vincke emphasized that the end assets in the game will be crafted entirely by real creatives. "We are developing all the content manually," he stated.
We are continuously expanding our roster of writers and are busily putting together narrative groups.
Since this area is being specifically referenced — we currently have over twenty visual developers and have job openings for more talent.
Each initiative we do is supplementary and focused on letting our team spend more time on the creative process.
Any ML tool used well is a boost to a artist's workflow, not a replacement for their talent.
Addressing Concerns and Clarifying the Vision
The admission of AI usage at first generated unease among portions of the community. In reaction, Vincke provided further detail on online platforms.
"We use these tools to research ideas, similar to we use Google and art books," he stated. "During the conceptual brainstorming phase we use it as a basic framework for composition which we then swap out with original illustrations."
He continued, "Larian brings on creatives for their unique talent, not for their ability to follow what a AI generates."
Focused Uses for Machine Learning
Vincke had in the past detailed the team's focused approach to AI and ML, categorizing its use into primary areas:
- Streamlining Repetitive Work: This includes refining animations, audio processing, and pipeline-specific tasks like adapting animations for different models.
- Accelerated Iteration: Using tools to speedily create simple models of scenarios to validate concepts before complete implementation.
- Future Potential for Gameplay: Researching how AI could one day enhance emergent player agency, specifically in simulating player-driven narratives in a complex RPG.
He explicitly noted that key artistic domains — like music composition — are are absolutely not fields where the company is reducing human input. In fact, Larian is actively hiring in these precise roles.
"Our studio is neither shipping a game with any AI components, nor looking at cutting staff to swap them out with AI," Vincke concluded.
