The gaming industry is abuzz with discussions around the integration of AI technology. While some companies are diving headfirst into this technological revolution, others are more reserved, leading to a lively debate on the role AI should play in game development. Junghun Lee, CEO of Nexon, stirred the pot with his bold statement about AI’s ubiquity in game companies, sparking responses from various industry players.
Nexon’s AI Ambitions
In a recent interview, Nexon’s CEO Junghun Lee declared, “It’s important to assume that every game company is now using AI.” Nexon, along with its subsidiary Embark Studios, has been at the forefront of using AI in their projects. From their inception in 2018, Embark Studios promised to leverage advanced AI technology in game creation, as evidenced by their titles ARC Raiders and The Finals. Lee emphasized the necessity of adopting AI for competitive survival, stating, “If everyone is working with the same or similar technologies, the real question becomes: how do you survive?” This viewpoint aligns with other gaming giants like Electronic Arts and Blizzard, who have also embraced generative AI.
Industry Pushback
Despite these advancements, not every developer shares this enthusiasm. Responses to Lee’s comments reveal a significant portion of the industry remains AI-averse. Indie developers like Xalavier Nelson Jr. of Strange Scaffold and Neil Jones, creator of Ariel Knight’s Never Yield, have publicly stated their studios do not incorporate AI into their processes. Nelson JR. asserted, “We don’t use generative AI at Strange Scaffold and I can confirm that a lot of other studios are not—whether indie or AAA.” Similarly, Huskrafts of Rogue Eclipse declared an anti-AI stance, emphasizing their commitment to traditional development methods.
A Creative Choice
The resistance to AI is not just about technological preference but a deeper commitment to human creativity. Developers at studios like Necrosoft Games, creators of the upcoming Demonschool, express a strong dedication to maintaining human artistry in their projects. Their perspective highlights a broader industry sentiment that, while AI offers tools for efficiency, the heart of game development remains human ingenuity and creativity.
While major companies may be leading the AI charge, many developers still prioritize innovation driven by human talent. The ongoing debate underscores a pivotal moment in gaming, where the balance between technology and creativity will shape the industry’s future.
