The Divinity Developer Details Its Application of Machine Learning for Next Divinity Game
The studio behind popular RPGs like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin just shown its upcoming project, sparking immense excitement within the industry. However, recent statements from the studio's lead designer have added nuance to the narrative, addressing the team's philosophy toward machine learning.
A Tool for Ideation, Not Replacement
In a recent clarification, Larian's director detailed that the company is using machine learning for particular supporting functions. These encompass fleshing out PowerPoint slides, generating rough artistic references, and drafting temporary dialogue.
Notably, Vincke emphasized that the shipping assets in the game will be authored exclusively by real writers. "Larian is creating all the content manually," he said.
Our studio is continuously growing our team of storytellers and are currently assembling narrative groups.
Given that visual development is being particularly called out — we right now have over twenty artistic staff and have roles to fill for further talent.
Each initiative we do is supplementary and aimed at letting our team spend additional energy on actual creation.
Every machine learning application implemented properly is supplementary to a developer's routine, never a stand-in for their skill.
Responding to Feedback and Defining the Path
The revelation of AI usage initially provoked concern among a segment of the community. In reaction, Vincke offered more clarification on social media.
"At Larian, we employ AI tools to gather inspiration, just like we use Google and physical media," he stated. "During the initial ideation stages we use it as a simple sketch for composition which we then substitute with original illustrations."
He added, "Larian brings on creatives for their creative vision, not for their ability to replicate what a machine suggests."
Three Pillars of Practical Application
Vincke had in the past detailed the team's practical method to this technology, defining its use into key functions:
- Handling Monotonous Jobs: Areas like motion capture cleaning, voice editing, and technical processes like adjusting assets for various species.
- Accelerated Iteration: Using systems to rapidly prototype simple mock-ups of gameplay ideas to validate concepts before full implementation.
- Future Potential for Gameplay: Investigating how machine learning could one day create innovative gameplay, especially in simulating unforeseen permutations in a vast role-playing world.
He specifically affirmed that central narrative areas — including writing — are not areas where the team is replacing human involvement. In fact, Larian is expanding its staff in these precise positions.
"We are not releasing a game with any AI components, nor planning on trimming down teams to swap them out with artificial intelligence," Vincke concluded.
