The Creators of Baldur's Gate 3 Explains Its Use of AI Tools for Upcoming Divinity

The studio behind acclaimed RPGs like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin has recently shown its new project, sparking a wave of excitement within the gaming community. However, recent statements from the studio's lead designer have added nuance to the conversation, focusing on the studio's philosophy toward AI tools.

AI as a Creative Assistant, Not a Substitute

In a new message, the studio's founder detailed that the developer is employing AI technology for certain supporting functions. These involve fleshing out PowerPoint slides, creating rough artistic references, and drafting placeholder dialogue.

Importantly, Vincke made clear that the final material in the game will be created exclusively by real writers. "We are developing all the content in-house," he stated.

We are constantly increasing our team of concept artists and are actively putting together narrative groups.

Given that this area is being explicitly called out — we presently have twenty-three artistic staff and have job openings for more creatives.

Everything we do is additive and designed to letting our team spend greater focus on making content.

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

Tempering Reactions with Clear Intent

The admission of employing this technology at first provoked concern among some the player base. In reply, Vincke offered more clarification on social media.

"Our team utilizes these tools to gather inspiration, similar to we use search engines and physical media," he explained. "During the conceptual brainstorming phase we use it as a simple sketch for layout which we then substitute with authentic concept art."

He added, "Larian brings on creatives for their creative vision, not for their willingness to follow what a machine suggests."

Three Pillars of Practical Application

Vincke had in the past outlined the company's focused approach to machine learning, categorizing its use into key functions:

• Automation of Tedious Tasks: This includes motion capture cleaning, dialogue cleanup, and Larian-specific work like adjusting assets for various species.
• Rapid Prototyping ('White Boxing'): Using technology to rapidly prototype basic mock-ups of gameplay ideas to validate concepts prior to expensive production.
• Experimental Frontiers: Investigating how AI could in the future create emergent player agency, especially in managing player-driven narratives in a detailed game universe.

He explicitly noted that central narrative disciplines — including visual art — are not areas where the studio is cutting artistic involvement. Conversely, Larian is expanding its staff in these exact fields.

"We are not launching a game with any AI components, and we are certainly not considering reducing staff to substitute them with artificial intelligence," Vincke stated definitively.