The Divinity Developer Details Its Use of Machine Learning for New Divinity Game

The team behind acclaimed RPGs like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin just unveiled its new project, sparking immense hype within the player base. However, subsequent statements from the studio's co-founder have introduced nuance to the discussion, addressing the developer's approach toward generative artificial intelligence.

A Tool for Ideation, Not Replacement

In a recent message, Larian's director detailed that the developer is employing machine learning for certain ancillary tasks. These involve developing PowerPoint slides, generating initial concept art, and drafting temporary dialogue.

Notably, Vincke made clear that the end material in the game will be authored solely by human writers. "Larian is writing everything ourselves," he affirmed.

Our studio is constantly increasing our pool of storytellers and are currently assembling dedicated writer rooms.

Given that visual development is being particularly called out — we presently have twenty-three visual developers and have job openings for additional artists.

Each initiative we do is incremental and designed to enabling creatives to spend greater focus on making content.

Every ML tool used well is supplementary to a developer's routine, never a stand-in for their skill.

Addressing Concerns and Clarifying the Vision

The admission of AI usage initially generated backlash among a segment of the community. In response, Vincke issued additional clarification on social media.

"Our team utilizes machine learning to explore references, in the same way we use Google and art books," he wrote. "During the conceptual brainstorming phase we use it as a rough outline for composition which we then swap out with hand-crafted concept art."

He continued, "Our studio recruits creatives for their inherent skill, not for their capacity to execute what a machine suggests."

Key Areas of AI Integration

Vincke had previously outlined the company's targeted approach to AI and ML, categorizing its use into primary areas:

• Streamlining Repetitive Work: This encompasses refining animations, voice editing, and technical processes like retargeting animations.
• Accelerated Iteration: Using tools to speedily create simple versions of scenarios to experiment with concepts prior to full development.
• Long-Term Aspirations: Exploring how AI could eventually enhance new forms of gameplay, especially in simulating dynamic reactions in a vast role-playing world.

He specifically noted that key artistic disciplines — including writing — are not fields where the studio is cutting human involvement. On the contrary, Larian is expanding its staff in these exact roles.

"Our studio is not shipping a game with AI-generated content, and we are certainly not looking at cutting teams to substitute them with AI," Vincke stated definitively.