Baldur’s Gate 3 Developer Larian Comments on GenAI Use in New Game Divinity

Larian Studios, the team behind popular games like Baldur’s Gate 3 and Divinity, has recently faced some criticism after admitting to using AI tools. However, according to CEO Swen Vincke, fans don’t need to be concerned. Larian gained huge recognition in 2023 with the massive success of Baldur’s Gate 3, and they recently surprised audiences at the Game Awards with a shocking and graphic trailer for Divinity.

The announcement from the creators of Divinity at The Game Awards generated a lot of buzz, but it’s now causing some controversy. This stems from their decision to use generative AI in their upcoming game. The use of AI in game development has been a hot topic this year, dividing both developers and players. Some see AI as a helpful tool, while others worry it will lead to unoriginal content. Despite the backlash, the studio head has stated they plan to continue using the technology, which is likely to upset some fans, though there’s still hope for a positive outcome.

Larian Studios is Using Generative AI to Aid Early Development, Igniting Backlash Across the Internet

Larian Studios is experimenting with generative AI during the early stages of game development, but according to a recent Bloomberg interview with CEO Sven Vincke, it likely won’t appear in the final game. The studio is using AI for tasks like creating quick prototypes, presentations, and temporary assets. While Vincke clarified this, he admitted AI has been used for concept art, which has drawn criticism from fans. The Bloomberg article sparked a lot of discussion on Reddit and gaming forums like ResetEra, with many players expressing disappointment. Vincke told Bloomberg that most of the team is now comfortable with how AI is being used, although the article notes that not all employees initially agreed with the decision.

Swen Vincke Promises That Larian Studios is Still a Human-Focused Operation

Larian Studios is committed to creating games entirely made by people, according to Vincke. They write all the content themselves, and currently only use AI to create temporary, placeholder elements. While some believe this limited use of AI is acceptable because it doesn’t impact the final game, others disagree. Some argue it could speed up development, while others worry it devalues the work of artists like concept designers. Larian Studios has previously expressed strong opinions on AI, with publishing director Michael Douse recently calling ‘AI artists’ unpleasant online.

I think at this point everyone at the company is more or less OK with the way we’re using it

Larian Studios’ decision to use generative AI has sparked mixed reactions, with some players upset and others not concerned. It remains to be seen if the studio will address the controversy further, or remain quiet about it. Although Larian has stated future games won’t include AI-generated content, concerns persist about how its current use might impact the later stages of development, as it’s being applied to a vital part of the game creation process.

Sources: Bloomberg, ResetEra, Reddit

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2025-12-16 20:34