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

The studio behind popular RPGs like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin recently teased its next major project, sparking significant hype within the industry. However, recent comments from the company's figurehead have added a new dimension to the discussion, touching on the developer's stance toward machine learning.

A Tool for Ideation, Not Replacement

In a new clarification, Swen Vincke explained that the company is utilizing machine learning for particular preliminary functions. These include developing pitch decks, creating rough concept art, and drafting temporary text.

Notably, Vincke emphasized that the final content in the game will be crafted solely by human artists. "We are developing all the content in-house," he stated.

We are actively increasing our team of storytellers and are actively putting together narrative groups.

As visual development is being particularly called out — we right now have twenty-three concept artists and have job openings for additional artists.

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

Every ML tool implemented properly is supplementary to a creative team routine, not a substitute for their skill.

Tempering Reactions with Clear Intent

The news of using AI at first sparked unease among a segment of the player base. In reply, Vincke offered more clarification on social media.

"At Larian, we employ machine learning to explore references, similar to we use the internet and art books," he wrote. "In the very early ideation stages we use it as a basic framework for layout which we then swap out with authentic illustrations."

He continued, "Larian brings on artists for their unique talent, not for their ability to execute what a AI generates."

Key Areas of AI Integration

Vincke had previously outlined the studio's practical approach to machine learning, categorizing its use into key functions:

• Handling Monotonous Jobs: This includes refining animations, audio processing, and Larian-specific work like adjusting assets for various species.
• Accelerated Iteration: Using tools to rapidly prototype simple versions of gameplay ideas to test concepts prior to full implementation.
• Experimental Frontiers: Researching how machine learning could in the future create innovative reactivity, especially in managing unforeseen permutations in a detailed game universe.

He explicitly noted that central narrative domains — such as visual art — are are absolutely not areas where the company is cutting artistic involvement. On the contrary, Larian is actively hiring in these very roles.

"Larian is neither shipping a game with machine-made assets, nor planning on cutting staff to replace them with artificial intelligence," Vincke concluded.