The Creators of Baldur's Gate 3 Explains Its Application of Machine Learning for Upcoming Project

The developer behind popular RPGs like Baldur's Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sin just unveiled its next major project, generating significant anticipation within the industry. However, follow-up statements from the company's lead designer have introduced nuance to the conversation, touching on the team's approach toward machine learning.

Augmenting Workflows, Not Cutting Jobs

In a new message, the studio's founder outlined that the developer is employing machine learning for certain ancillary purposes. These include fleshing out PowerPoint slides, creating rough concept art, and creating temporary copy.

Crucially, Vincke made clear that the shipping content in the game will be crafted solely by human artists. "Our team is developing everything ourselves," he affirmed.

Our studio is constantly growing our roster of concept artists and are currently putting together dedicated writer rooms.

Since concept art is being particularly called out — we right now have 23 concept artists and have roles to fill for additional creatives.

Each initiative we do is additive and focused on enabling creatives to spend more time on actual creation.

Any AI system applied correctly is additive to a developer's routine, not a replacement for their craft.

Addressing Concerns and Clarifying the Vision

The revelation of using AI initially generated concern among a segment of the player base. In reaction, Vincke offered more clarification on public forums.

"We use these tools to explore references, just like we use the internet and art books," he explained. "In the very early ideation stages we use it as a basic framework for layout which we then substitute with authentic illustrations."

He continued, "Our studio recruits creatives for their creative vision, not for their capacity to replicate what a machine suggests."

Focused Uses for Machine Learning

Vincke had in the past detailed the team's practical method to this technology, categorizing its use into primary functions:

• Streamlining Repetitive Work: Areas like motion capture cleaning, voice editing, and technical processes like adapting animations for different models.
• Accelerated Iteration: Using technology to quickly build basic versions of mechanics to test concepts before full development.
• Future Potential for Gameplay: Investigating how AI could eventually create innovative gameplay, specifically in managing dynamic reactions in a detailed game universe.

He explicitly affirmed that key artistic domains — like music composition — are are in no way areas where the team is replacing human input. In fact, Larian is recruiting more in these precise roles.

"Our studio is not launching a game with any AI components, nor considering reducing staff to replace them with AI," Vincke summarized.