The Divinity Developer Details Its Implementation of AI Tools for New Divinity

The studio behind hit titles like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin just shown its next major project, sparking immense excitement within the gaming community. However, subsequent comments from the company's figurehead have brought a new dimension to the discussion, focusing on the developer's philosophy toward AI tools.

Augmenting Workflows, Not Cutting Jobs

In a recent message, the studio's founder detailed that the team is employing machine learning for particular supporting tasks. These involve developing presentation materials, producing rough concept art, and creating draft text.

Importantly, Vincke emphasized that the end assets in the game will be crafted exclusively by human creatives. "Our team is creating everything ourselves," he said.

We are constantly increasing our team of storytellers and are busily forming writing teams.

Given that this area is being particularly mentioned — we presently have 23 visual developers and have positions available for further creatives.

Everything we do is supplementary and designed to having people spend more time on actual creation.

Every machine learning application applied correctly is additive to a developer's routine, not a substitute for their talent.

Addressing Concerns and Clarifying the Vision

The news of using AI initially sparked concern among some the community. In reaction, Vincke issued additional detail on online platforms.

"Our team utilizes AI tools to explore references, similar to we use search engines and physical media," he stated. "In the very early planning process we use it as a basic framework for structure which we then swap out with original artwork."

He noted, "Our studio recruits creatives for their creative vision, not for their ability to execute what a machine suggests."

Focused Uses for Machine Learning

Vincke had in the past detailed the company's practical approach to machine learning, categorizing its use into key areas:

• Streamlining Repetitive Work: This includes motion capture cleaning, voice editing, and technical processes like adapting animations for different models.
• Accelerated Iteration: Using technology to quickly build basic mock-ups of scenarios to validate concepts prior to full implementation.
• Future Potential for Gameplay: Exploring how machine learning could one day facilitate innovative player agency, particularly in simulating unforeseen permutations in a detailed game universe.

He explicitly stated that core creative domains — such as visual art — are are absolutely not areas where the team is reducing creative involvement. On the contrary, Larian is expanding its staff in these precise roles.

"We are not launching a game with machine-made assets, nor planning on cutting teams to substitute them with artificial intelligence," Vincke concluded.