Microsoft, the creator of Xbox, has refrained from mandating the use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) across its game studios, despite a notable push for AI integration in the gaming industry. This statement comes from Compulsion Games, the studio behind the upcoming title "South of Midnight," in response to inquiries about generative AI's role in the development process following Microsoft's recent advancements in the field.
Guillaume Provost, CEO of Compulsion Games, emphasised that Microsoft is not imposing the technology on its first-party teams. "I can absolutely guarantee [that generative AI usage] is not mandated," Provost remarked in an interview with Game Developer. He highlighted the studio’s commitment to craftsmanship and artistry, stating, "You’re talking to the studio that literally builds shit by hand. In the DNA of the studio that we have, we’re very craft-oriented. We’re very art-oriented."
Provost did acknowledge that there are potential applications for generative AI in the early stages of development, particularly for tasks like creating storyboards. "I think there are a lot of cases where it could be helpful in pre-production for us to do things like spitting out storyboards for us to see whether it makes sense or not," he explained. However, he made it clear that such technologies would not play a significant role in the production phases of their projects.
He further asserted, “Just based on the types of games that we make, I would say we are probably not the studio that will use AI the most, and I don’t think that bothers anything at Microsoft.” This statement underscores Compulsion Games’ philosophy of prioritising manual craftsmanship, which they believe enhances the authenticity and uniqueness of their game titles.
Microsoft's exploration of generative AI includes its new model, Muse, which has been featured in a tech demonstration of Quake 2. This model is said to be capable of generating "game visuals, controller actions, or both." CEO Satya Nadella has expressed ambitions for a catalogue of video games to leverage this new technology, describing his exhilaration upon witnessing the potential of generative AI, akin to the moment he first encountered models like ChatGPT.
The topic of generative AI has stirred significant debate within the gaming community, with concerns raised regarding its implications for employment and the risk of plagiarism. As the industry continues to evolve, the stance taken by studios like Compulsion Games highlights a tension between technological innovation and traditional artistry in game development.
Source: Noah Wire Services