The Creators of Baldur's Gate 3 Explains Its Application of Machine Learning for New Project

The team behind popular role-playing games like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin recently unveiled its new project, creating significant anticipation within the industry. However, subsequent remarks from the studio's figurehead have brought a new dimension to the narrative, addressing the developer's philosophy toward generative artificial intelligence.

AI as a Creative Assistant, Not a Substitute

In a new statement, Larian's director detailed that the company is utilizing generative AI for specific ancillary purposes. These involve fleshing out pitch decks, producing rough artistic references, and drafting temporary dialogue.

Crucially, Vincke made clear that the final material in the game will be created solely by real creatives. "We are developing all the content manually," he said.

Our studio is continuously increasing our team of concept artists and are currently forming writing teams.

Given that this area is being explicitly mentioned — we currently have over twenty concept artists and have job openings for more talent.

Each initiative we do is incremental and aimed at having people spend additional energy on the creative process.

Every machine learning application used well is a boost to a developer's workflow, not a substitute for their craft.

Responding to Feedback and Defining the Path

The revelation of using AI initially sparked concern among portions of the player base. In response, Vincke offered further elaboration on social media.

"At Larian, we employ AI tools to explore references, just like we use search engines and reference books," he stated. "In the very early ideation stages we use it as a simple sketch for layout which we then substitute with original artwork."

He noted, "Larian brings on talent for their inherent skill, not for their ability to replicate what a AI generates."

Three Pillars of Practical Application

Vincke had earlier broken down the team's practical strategy to AI and ML, grouping its use into primary functions:

• Automation of Tedious Tasks: Areas like refining animations, dialogue cleanup, and Larian-specific work like adapting animations for different models.
• Rapid Prototyping ('White Boxing'): Using systems to rapidly prototype basic mock-ups of mechanics to validate concepts prior to expensive development.
• Experimental Frontiers: Exploring how AI could eventually enhance innovative player agency, especially in managing player-driven narratives in a complex RPG.

He specifically stated that core creative disciplines — including visual art — are are absolutely not areas where the studio is replacing artistic talent. In fact, Larian is actively hiring in these precise fields.

"We are neither shipping a game with machine-made assets, and we are certainly not considering reducing teams to swap them out with artificial intelligence," Vincke summarized.