What's Happening?
Larian Studios, known for its Divinity series, has clarified its stance on the use of AI-generated text in game development. During a recent AMA, writing director Adam Smith stated that the studio does not use AI-generated text for dialogues, journal entries, or any other writing in their games. Smith emphasized that AI-generated text, even as placeholders, does not benefit development and often results in subpar quality, rating it a '3/10 at best.' The studio experimented with AI tools for research purposes but found that the quality of AI-generated text was inferior to even the worst drafts produced by human writers. Larian Studios remains committed to maintaining high-quality writing standards, involving multiple iterations and reviews to ensure
the final product meets their expectations.
Why It's Important?
The decision by Larian Studios to avoid AI-generated text highlights ongoing concerns about the quality and reliability of AI in creative processes. This stance underscores the importance of human creativity and oversight in maintaining the narrative quality of video games. As AI tools become more prevalent, industries are grappling with balancing technological efficiency with artistic integrity. Larian's approach may influence other game developers to critically assess the role of AI in their creative processes, potentially impacting how AI is integrated into the gaming industry. This decision also reflects broader industry trends where the authenticity and originality of content are prioritized over automated solutions.
What's Next?
Larian Studios' commitment to human-driven content creation suggests that the company will continue to invest in skilled writers and iterative development processes. This approach may set a precedent for other developers, encouraging them to evaluate the effectiveness of AI tools critically. As AI technology evolves, the gaming industry may see further discussions and policies regarding the ethical and practical implications of AI in creative roles. Stakeholders, including game developers and players, will likely continue to debate the balance between AI efficiency and human creativity, shaping the future of content creation in gaming.
