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

The developer behind popular titles like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin recently teased its upcoming project, generating immense excitement within the industry. However, subsequent remarks from the studio's lead designer have added clarity to the narrative, touching on the team's approach toward machine learning.

Augmenting Workflows, Not Cutting Jobs

In a latest statement, the studio's founder explained that the team is employing generative AI for certain preliminary tasks. These encompass enhancing PowerPoint slides, generating rough artistic references, and writing temporary dialogue.

Notably, Vincke emphasized that the end content in the game will be crafted exclusively by real artists. "We are creating everything in-house," he affirmed.

Our studio is actively expanding our team of concept artists and are currently putting together writing teams.

Given that visual development is being particularly referenced — we presently have twenty-three concept artists and have roles to fill for additional artists.

Each initiative we do is supplementary and focused on enabling creatives to spend additional energy on the creative process.

Any machine learning application used well is additive to a developer's workflow, never a stand-in for their craft.

Responding to Feedback and Defining the Path

The revelation of AI usage initially sparked backlash among portions of the community. In response, Vincke offered further clarification on social media.

"Our team utilizes AI tools to explore references, similar to we use the internet and reference books," he wrote. "During the initial ideation stages we use it as a simple sketch for layout which we then swap out with hand-crafted illustrations."

He continued, "Larian brings on talent for their unique talent, not for their willingness to replicate what a machine suggests."

Focused Uses for Machine Learning

Vincke had earlier outlined the company's practical method to AI and ML, grouping its use into three main areas:

• Handling Monotonous Jobs: This includes polishing mocap data, audio processing, and pipeline-specific tasks like adjusting assets for various species.
• Rapid Prototyping ('White Boxing'): Using tools to speedily create simple mock-ups of scenarios to test concepts prior to expensive development.
• Long-Term Aspirations: Researching how AI could one day facilitate innovative reactivity, specifically in simulating unforeseen permutations in a complex RPG.

He specifically affirmed that core creative domains — such as music composition — are are in no way fields where the team is replacing human involvement. On the contrary, Larian is recruiting more in these exact roles.

"Our studio is not releasing a game with AI-generated content, nor planning on reducing teams to replace them with artificial intelligence," Vincke stated definitively.