Mass Effect Creators Confirm No Plans to Incorporate Generative AI in Sci-Fi RPG Exodus, Despite Star’s Interest in the Technology

The upcoming sci-fi title, Exodus, crafted by a team of former Mass Effect developers, is currently not utilizing any generative AI technology. However, the studio remains open to the possibility of incorporating it in the future if necessary.

Chad Robertson, a Mass Effect veteran and co-founder of the studio Archetype, stated that while they have no immediate plans to implement generative AI, they may reconsider if it becomes essential for achieving the desired quality, timeline, or budget for the game.

This discussion arose in light of Hollywood actor Matthew McConaughey’s involvement in Exodus, as he has investments in an audio company called Elevenlabs and has a separate agreement with them to allow AI-generated versions of his voice in certain contexts.

Robertson emphasized, “No, no. Everything that’s in Exodus – 100 percent of what’s in Exodus – is bespoke VO recording just for us.” He clarified that McConaughey’s deal with Elevenlabs is distinct and pertains to AI voice generation, which is being utilized by other game developers. However, there are strict guidelines on how his voice can be used in those scenarios.

The collaboration between Archetype and McConaughey is described as “very specific,” focusing solely on original voice recordings. Players can expect to hear McConaughey’s authentic performance in the game. Regarding the studio’s future approach to technology, Robertson noted, “We want to be smart technologists, and we want to make great games. If cost or quality considerations make generative AI more viable and accepted, we will need to be thoughtful about how we integrate it.”

Exodus is said to share “some DNA” with the beloved Mass Effect series, while also drawing inspiration from titles like Sony’s Horizon and Nintendo’s Metroid.