Larian Studios Explains Its Implementation of Generative AI for Next Divinity

The team behind popular titles like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin has recently teased its upcoming project, generating a wave of hype within the gaming community. However, recent statements from the company's co-founder have added clarity to the narrative, focusing on the developer's approach toward generative artificial intelligence.

A Tool for Ideation, Not Replacement

In a new statement, Larian's director explained that the company is using AI technology for specific supporting functions. These encompass developing PowerPoint slides, generating early-stage concept art, and creating draft dialogue.

Crucially, Vincke made clear that the final assets in the game will be authored entirely by real writers. "We are creating every line manually," he said.

We are continuously growing our team of concept artists and are actively forming narrative groups.

Since this area is being explicitly mentioned — we right now have twenty-three visual developers and have positions available for more talent.

Everything we do is supplementary and aimed at having people spend more time on actual creation.

Any ML tool implemented properly is additive to a artist's workflow, not a replacement for their skill.

Addressing Concerns and Clarifying the Vision

The admission of AI usage at first provoked unease among a segment of the community. In reaction, Vincke provided additional clarification on public forums.

"Our team utilizes AI tools to research ideas, similar to we use Google and reference books," he wrote. "In the very early planning process we use it as a basic framework for layout which we then substitute with hand-crafted concept art."

He noted, "Our studio recruits artists for their creative vision, not for their capacity to execute what a algorithm proposes."

Focused Uses for Machine Learning

Vincke had previously detailed the team's targeted strategy to AI and ML, categorizing its use into three main pillars:

  • Handling Monotonous Jobs: This includes polishing mocap data, audio processing, and technical processes like retargeting animations.
  • Fast-Tracked Experimentation: Using technology to rapidly prototype simple mock-ups of mechanics to test concepts prior to full development.
  • Long-Term Aspirations: Researching how AI could one day facilitate new forms of player agency, particularly in simulating player-driven narratives in a vast role-playing world.

He explicitly affirmed that core creative areas — such as writing — are are in no way fields where the team is replacing artistic talent. On the contrary, Larian is recruiting more in these very positions.

"Larian is not launching a game with any AI components, and we are certainly not considering reducing staff to swap them out with artificial intelligence," Vincke stated definitively.

Kyle Higgins
Kyle Higgins

Elara is a tech journalist and AI researcher with over a decade of experience covering emerging technologies and their impact on society.

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