The Divinity Developer Explains Its Application of AI Tools for Next Divinity Game

The developer behind acclaimed role-playing games like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin just teased its next major project, creating a wave of hype within the gaming community. However, recent statements from the studio's figurehead have added a new dimension to the narrative, focusing on the developer's approach toward AI tools.

A Tool for Ideation, Not Replacement

In a recent message, the studio's founder outlined that the developer is utilizing generative AI for certain supporting functions. These include developing presentation materials, creating early-stage concept art, and writing temporary text.

Crucially, Vincke made clear that the shipping content in the game will be crafted solely by real creatives. "We are creating every line ourselves," he said.

We are actively growing our team of concept artists and are actively putting together writing teams.

Since this area is being explicitly referenced — we currently have over twenty concept artists and have job openings for additional artists.

Each initiative we do is incremental and aimed at having people spend greater focus on actual creation.

Every AI system used well is a boost to a artist's workflow, never a stand-in for their talent.

Addressing Concerns and Clarifying the Vision

The revelation of AI usage initially generated backlash among some the player base. In response, Vincke provided additional elaboration on online platforms.

"At Larian, we employ machine learning to explore references, similar to we use the internet and physical media," he stated. "During the initial ideation stages we use it as a rough outline for layout which we then substitute with hand-crafted illustrations."

He continued, "Our studio recruits talent for their unique talent, not for their capacity to execute what a machine suggests."

Key Areas of AI Integration

Vincke had in the past detailed the team's practical strategy to AI and ML, categorizing its use into key pillars:

• Handling Monotonous Jobs: This includes motion capture cleaning, audio processing, and technical processes like retargeting animations.
• Fast-Tracked Experimentation: Using tools to rapidly prototype basic mock-ups of scenarios to validate concepts prior to complete implementation.
• Future Potential for Gameplay: Exploring how machine learning could one day create emergent player agency, particularly in simulating unforeseen permutations in a detailed game universe.

He specifically affirmed that key artistic disciplines — including writing — are are in no way departments where the team is replacing creative involvement. On the contrary, Larian is expanding its staff in these very roles.

"Our studio is neither shipping a game with AI-generated content, and we are certainly not considering cutting creatives to substitute them with AI," Vincke concluded.