### Larian Studios CEO Addresses AI Controversy Amid Backlash from Fans and Developers Larian Studios, the developer behind acclaimed titles like Baldur's Gate 3, has found itself at the center of a heated debate regarding the use of generative AI in the development of its upcoming game, Divinity. CEO Swen Vincke has publicly defended the studio's approach, asserting that AI is only utilized in the early brainstorming stages and that no AI-generated content will be included in the final game. This clarification comes in response to significant backlash from fans and former employees who are concerned about the implications of AI in creative roles within the gaming industry. Vincke emphasized that the studio remains committed to human artistry and creativity, stating, "We've hired creatives for their talent, not for their ability to do what a machine suggests" [https://www.radiotimes.com/technology/gaming/larian-using-generative-ai-divinity-swen-vincke-newsupdate]. ### Breakdown of the Controversy and Larian's Response 1. **Initial Comments and Backlash**: - Vincke's comments about using generative AI for concept art and idea exploration sparked outrage among fans and industry professionals, leading to accusations of potential job replacement for artists [https://www.digitalcitizen.life/divinity-ai-backlash-larian-ceo-response]. 2. **Clarification of AI Usage**: - In subsequent statements, Vincke clarified that while AI tools are used for early development, the final game will not contain any AI-generated assets. He firmly denied any intention to replace human artists with AI [https://www.pcgamer.com/games/rpg/baldurs-gate-3-developer-larian-defends-itself-as-fans-react-to-generative-ai-use-im-not-entirely-sure-we-are-the-ideal-target-for-the-level-of-scorn]. 3. **Community Engagement**: - To address concerns directly, Vincke announced plans for an AMA (Ask Me Anything) session, allowing fans to ask questions about the development process and the role of AI in it [https://www.windowscentral.com/gaming/larian-ceo-swen-vincke-responds-to-backlash-against-ai-use-while-making-its-new-rpg-divinity]. 4. **Industry Context**: - The controversy reflects broader tensions in the gaming industry regarding the integration of AI technologies, with many questioning the impact on jobs and the integrity of creative work [https://www.notebookcheck.net/Larian-CEO-Swen-Vincke-defends-generative-AI-in-new-Divinity-title-sparking-fan-and-dev-backlash.1189455.0.html]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Public Statements**: - Vincke has repeatedly stated that Larian is not "pushing hard" for AI integration in a way that would replace artists, emphasizing that the studio values human creativity [https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/holy-f-guys-were-not-replacing-artists-larian-boss-responds-to-ai-backlash]. - **Commitment to Human Talent**: - The studio's commitment to hiring creatives for their unique talents rather than AI capabilities has been a central theme in Vincke's defense [https://www.ibtimes.co.uk/larian-draws-clear-line-ai-divinity-fans-say-this-defends-rpg-craft-1763654]. - **Community Reactions**: - The backlash has included not only fan criticism but also concerns from former employees, indicating a significant divide in opinions on the use of AI in game development [https://kotaku.com/larian-baldurs-gate-3-divinity-ai-swen-vincke-reaction-2000653934]. ### Conclusion: Larian's Position on AI in Game Development In summary, Larian Studios is navigating a complex landscape of AI integration in game development, with CEO Swen Vincke taking a firm stance against the notion that AI will replace human artists. The studio's commitment to maintaining artistic integrity and human creativity is clear, as is its willingness to engage with the community to address concerns. 1. **AI Usage Clarified**: Larian uses AI only in early development stages, with no AI content in the final game. 2. **Community Engagement**: Vincke's announcement of an AMA aims to foster transparency and dialogue with fans. 3. **Industry Implications**: The controversy highlights ongoing debates about AI's role in creative industries, particularly in gaming. Larian's approach reflects a cautious yet innovative stance on technology, aiming to enhance rather than replace the human element in game development [https://www.gamerbraves.com/larian-ceo-clarifies-ai-use-tools-for-development-not-for-final-game-content].