Kingdom Come Deliverance 2 Developer Embraces AI, While Former Naughty Dog Leader Rejects It
Following recent comments from Larian’s CEO, Swen Vincke, about the use of generative AI in the development of Baldur’s Gate 3, a significant backlash erupted on social media. While Vincke mentioned that most of Larian’s team was “okay” with the integration of this technology, the response from fans and fellow developers painted a different picture. Notable industry figures like Daniel Vávra, the lead on Kingdom Come: Deliverance, and former Naughty Dog director Bruce Straley have shared their thoughts, suggesting that generative AI is likely to remain a part of game development, although Straley is currently resisting the trend.
Vávra expressed his views in a detailed post on X, stating that while he isn’t a fan of AI-generated art, critics need to acknowledge that AI is becoming a permanent fixture in the industry. He lamented the lengthy and costly process of game development, highlighting the extensive resources required to create a game. He argued that if AI could streamline the process and allow for the creation of epic games in a shorter timeframe with smaller teams, he would support it. He emphasized that while AI could handle mundane tasks, it wouldn’t replace the essential roles of art directors, writers, and designers.
At fifty years old, Vávra noted that his average game development cycle spans seven years, and he sees AI as a potential tool to help bring his ideas to life more quickly. He compared the current backlash against AI to the historical resistance to steam engines, suggesting that the industry is experiencing a similar wave of fear and misunderstanding.
In contrast, Straley acknowledges the inevitability of generative AI’s presence in the industry but has taken a firm stance against its use at Wildflower Interactive. He expressed concerns about the implications of AI on human creativity, arguing that the complexity of the human brain cannot be replicated by machines. Straley believes that relying on AI could lead to detrimental consequences for humanity.
While it’s refreshing to hear Straley’s opposition to generative AI, it’s concerning that he also views its integration into the industry as unavoidable. Vávra’s assertion that “everyone else” is using generative AI raises questions about the future of creativity in gaming. The industry can aspire to higher standards than simply relying on AI-generated content that risks sidelining talented individuals. If holding onto the belief that better outcomes are possible makes one a fool, then many would prefer to embrace that foolishness over becoming advocates for AI.
