Larian Studios, the acclaimed developer behind Baldur’s Gate 3, has found itself under intense scrutiny following revelations that it utilized AI for concept art and internal placeholder text for its upcoming Divinity title. Although the studio has firmly promised that no AI-generated assets will be included in the final product, the news sparked a wave of criticism. Now, a legendary figure from the D&D pantheon has stepped forward to defend the studio’s integrity.
Robert J. Kuntz, an original Dungeons & Dragons author whose foundational contributions helped shape the RPG genre in the 1970s, took to social media to voice his support for Larian and its CEO, Swen Vincke.
“To the fans of Larian: perhaps consider showing a bit more grace to the creative professionals who work tirelessly day after day?” Kuntz remarked. “It is disheartening to see Swen Vincke treated as an outsider. I offer my personal support and best wishes for the studio’s continued success.”
Fans of @larianstudios Hey maybe lighten up on the creatives who work their arses off day in and day out? Just a suggestion. It’s sorta disappointing to see @LarAtLarian treated like some sort of outsider. I extend my personal well-wishes to the studio for their continued… https://t.co/6TziQjdMiV
— Robert J. Kuntz (@cantworkitout) December 17, 2025
In a subsequent, more detailed post, Kuntz dismissed the wave of hostility directed at Larian as “inflammatory rage-bait” fueled by “bad actor syndrome.” He suggested that modern RPG and D&D enthusiasts should strive to be more appreciative of the creators who build the worlds they enjoy.
“The RPG community, which I helped foster starting in the early ’70s, was once far more civil and appreciative of the individuals creating their hobby,” he stated.
AI remains a highly contentious topic in the industry. Vincke has admitted that the technology “evokes strong emotions” while maintaining that Larian’s experimentation is purely about staying on the “cutting edge” of development tools. Recently, Vincke clarified that much of the controversy stemmed from a misunderstanding, stating it would be “irresponsible” not to evaluate new technologies. To clear the air, the studio plans to host an AMA to explain their workflow and technological approach in greater detail.
As the debate continues, Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2’s lead dev recently suggested that while AI might signal the “end of major publishers,” it could also empower smaller teams to create massive, epic games with the efficiency of the “old days.”
Source: gamesradar.com
