Why Larian Studios Refuses to Use AI for Art and Writing in Games

Reassurance from Larian Studios: The Future of AI in Gaming

Larian Studios, the mastermind behind the acclaimed Baldur’s Gate 3, firmly stands against the use of generative AI for concept art and writing in their upcoming game, Divinity. In a recent Reddit AMA, CEO Swen Vincke reiterated this commitment, stating, "So first off - there is not going to be any GenAI art in Divinity." This move follows a wave of backlash from the gaming community concerning earlier comments suggesting that the studio had considered using AI in its development process.

Clarifying Misunderstandings: What AI Tools Will Be Used?

Initially, Vincke indicated that the team experimented with AI tools to "explore ideas" and iterate on different aspects of game design, including PowerPoint presentations and concept visuals. The gaming community expressed concern, fearing that the essence of creativity and artistry could be compromised. To quell these worries, Larian has decided to eliminate any generative AI from the development of concept art altogether. "This way, there can be no discussion about the origin of the art," Vincke explained, ensuring that players receive original content.

Striking a Balance: The Role of AI in Game Development

Although generative AI will not contribute to artistic visuals or narrative writing, Larian remains optimistic about leveraging AI tools for ideas refinement in the future. Vincke noted, "Our hope is that it can aid us to refine ideas faster, leading to a more focused development cycle, less waste, and ultimately, a higher-quality game." This suggests a middle ground where AI enhances efficiency without diluting the creative input of human developers.

The Broader Ethical Perspective on AI in Creative Industries

This decision by Larian raises larger questions about the ethics of AI in creative fields. There are significant concerns surrounding AI's impact on art and writing—issues relating to originality, ownership, and the quality of AI outputs. Writing director Adam Smith explicitly mentioned that any text generated had consistently fallen short of their standards, claiming a generative AI output was rated at a mere 3/10. This serves as a reminder that while AI can enhance productivity, quality craftsmanship remains paramount in creative processes.

Looking Ahead: What Does This Mean for Gamers?

For avid gamers and the broader tech community, Larian’s stance is a comforting signal that human creativity and artistry will not be overshadowed by automated processes. By prioritizing original art and literary contributions, Larian emphasizes the invaluable role of human creativity in making games truly immersive and resonant. As technologies evolve, the gaming landscape may change, but the core philosophy around creative integrity remains crucial.

Stay informed on how AI is reshaping the gaming industry and broader sectors. Understanding these ethical implications ensures that we advocate for responsible and innovative applications of AI, leading to a brighter future in tech.