Larian Studios CEO Swen Vincke has recently addressed concerns regarding the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the studio’s creative process, following a controversial interview with Bloomberg that sparked backlash among fans and industry observers. In his defense, Vincke emphasized that the company’s approach is not to replace artists with AI, but rather to use the technology as a supportive tool in their creative endeavors.
In a post shared on social media, Vincke clarified that while Larian Studios utilizes AI, it is specifically employed for exploring references and generating initial ideas. “I didn’t say we use it to develop concept art. The artists do that,” he stated. He explained that AI tools are utilized to provide rough outlines during the early ideation stages, which are then refined and replaced with original concept art crafted by their talented team of artists. “There is no comparison,” he added, confirming the importance of human creativity in the artistic process.
Vincke highlighted that the hiring process at Larian focuses on creative talent rather than the capacity to mimic machine suggestions. He advocated for artists experimenting with AI tools to enhance their workflows. He noted that while AI might help speed up production and broaden experimentation, it does not replace the artistic input necessary for storytelling and character development.
The original Bloomberg interview, conducted by Jason Schreier, suggested that Larian was relying heavily on generative AI for various aspects of game development, including developing concept art and writing placeholder text. Following the interview, Schreier shared a transcript of his conversation with Vincke to provide additional context. Within that transcript, Vincke reiterated the notion that while AI can contribute to speeding up production, it does not accelerate the scripting of dialogues outright and emphasized the need for human alteration and input.
Schreier underscored the potential downsides of generative AI, describing it as “poisonous” and contentious among players and artists. Vincke responded by reminding stakeholders that adapting to technological changes is crucial for survival in the competitive gaming industry. “If you don’t look at the state of the art, you will eventually regret it,” he warned, highlighting the necessity for developers to embrace new tools to remain relevant.
Through this clarification, Vincke aims to reassure both fans and creators that Larian Studios remains committed to valuing human creativity while exploring innovative tools that can enhance their production process. As the industry continues to evolve, companies like Larian, with their rich history of creative storytelling and artistic vision, are navigating the delicate balance between tradition and technologie.