Baldur’s Gate 3 Director Addresses AI Controversy Surrounding Divinity
Larian Studios’ director, Swen Vincke, recently commented on the backlash stemming from their announcement of the upcoming RPG, Divinity. His original statements about the role of AI in game development appeared to spark confusion and concern among fans, leading him to clarify that “a lot has become lost in translation.”
When Divinity was revealed at The Game Awards 2025, reactions were a mixed bag. Some fans buzzed with excitement, while others expressed disgust at certain explicit elements. There was also uncertainty about whether the game would follow in the footsteps of the Original Sin series with its turn-based approach or steer into action-RPG territory like the earlier entries in the Divinity franchise. Shortly after, Vincke conducted several interviews, detailing how AI is being leveraged to help streamline the game’s development process. He made it clear: while AI isn’t generating any content for the game, it’s being utilized for placeholder text, concept art, and various supportive tasks.
“It’s been a week since we announced Divinity, our next RPG, and a lot has become lost in translation,” Vincke penned in a tweet that hinted at the ongoing AI debate.
In line with that, Larian’s publishing lead recently stated, “I’m not entirely sure we are the ideal target for the level of scorn” regarding the company’s AI position. Vincke reiterated that while they are using generative AI in some facets of development, they have no plans to launch Divinity with AI-generated content.
“Larian’s DNA is agency. Everything we work towards aims to benefit our teams, games, and players,” he shared. “A better work day leads to a better game. Our successes come from empowering people to work in their own way and showcase their skills to create the best RPGs possible.” He acknowledged the importance of evaluating new technologies, while affirming that when processes fall short of their standards or disrupt their creative ethos, changes will be made.
This twist alludes to Vincke possibly hinting at a reassessment of AI use in the development of Divinity. Given Larian’s esteemed reputation as one of the beloved RPG developers, any AI-related missteps could be seen as a PR conundrum.
Further insights into Divinity’s development will likely surface after the holiday break, as Vincke mentioned an upcoming AMA featuring different departments, where players can ask anything about the game’s creation — including those pressing AI questions.
In related news, the lead at Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 spoke about AI’s potential implications, noting that it “may mean the demise of humanity” and suggests a possible shift among major publishers. Yet, he also acknowledged, “If AI can help me make an epic game in a year with a smaller team like in the old days, I’m all for it.”