The Creators of Baldur's Gate 3 Clarifies Its Implementation of Machine Learning for Upcoming Project
The developer behind acclaimed RPGs like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin has recently shown its upcoming project, sparking significant hype within the player base. However, recent statements from the company's figurehead have introduced clarity to the conversation, addressing the studio's stance toward machine learning.
Augmenting Workflows, Not Cutting Jobs
In a latest message, the studio's founder outlined that the developer is utilizing generative AI for certain ancillary purposes. These involve developing presentation materials, generating early-stage concept art, and creating draft dialogue.
Crucially, Vincke stressed that the shipping content in the game will be crafted solely by human creatives. "We are creating all the content in-house," he affirmed.
Larian is constantly growing our team of storytellers and are currently putting together narrative groups.
Given that visual development is being specifically mentioned — we currently have 23 visual developers and have positions available for additional artists.
All our efforts we do is supplementary and aimed at letting our team spend more time on making content.
Any AI system applied correctly is a boost to a artist's routine, not a replacement for their craft.
Responding to Feedback and Defining the Path
The news of using AI initially provoked unease among portions of the community. In reply, Vincke offered more elaboration on public forums.
"Our team utilizes machine learning to gather inspiration, just like we use Google and art books," he stated. "During the very early ideation stages we use it as a simple sketch for structure which we then replace with hand-crafted artwork."
He added, "Larian brings on creatives for their unique talent, not for their capacity to replicate what a machine suggests."
Three Pillars of Practical Application
Vincke had previously outlined the company's focused method to AI and ML, categorizing its use into key areas:
- Streamlining Repetitive Work: Areas like motion capture cleaning, voice editing, and technical processes like retargeting animations.
- Rapid Prototyping ('White Boxing'): Using technology to speedily create basic mock-ups of gameplay ideas to experiment with concepts prior to complete development.
- Experimental Frontiers: Exploring how AI could eventually facilitate innovative reactivity, specifically in creating unforeseen permutations in a complex RPG.
He specifically affirmed that core creative disciplines — including music composition — are are in no way fields where the company is cutting human input. In fact, Larian is recruiting more in these very fields.
"Larian is not shipping a game with any AI components, and we are certainly not considering reducing teams to replace them with AI," Vincke stated definitively.