Modern technologies will soon be able to create NPCs entirely using AI, however, according to the head of Larian Studios Swen Vincke, developers should use neural networks to solve other problems.
In a conversation with IGN, the Larian executive called AI a tool that speeds up tasks: “I don’t think it will ever replace the creative side of development, and I’m willing to bet money on it.”
As an example, Vincke cited the situation at Larian: artists did not have time to prepare concept art quickly enough, which slowed down the work of other departments – the creation of models, animation, and so on.
Larian did not outsource the production of illustrations to an AI tool like Midjourney, but recruited 15 more concept artists to the team: “We hire scriptwriters, rather than having ChatGPT write dialogue for them.”
At the same time, Vincke sees applications for generative AI in development. With its help, according to the head of Larian, RPGs can become more responsive and more actively respond to the actions of gamers.
“I don’t believe in a future with generated NPCs – most likely, everything will just merge with each other. I believe that games will continue to be created (by people) and AI will be used to complement the experience,” says Vincke.
In 2023, Larian released the fantasy role-playing game Baldur's Gate 3 on PC, PS5, Xbox Series X and S. Despite the great success, the studio will not make an addition or sequel – the team is busy with another project.
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