With so much controversy surrounding the use of generative AI in video games, touting a release as “the world's first fully playable game created 100% by AI” may seem like a risky sales pitch. This is the boast that a developer named GROLAF is making about Codex Mortis.
This trailer is full of AI artifacts and looks like it was intentionally made to look bad. This game does little to support the argument that AI can generate original ideas and visuals.
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Codex Mortis is described as a “necromantic survival barrage.” A demo is available on Steam, and the developer has provided documentation detailing how everything from the text and art to the music was created using AI algorithms and tools.
According to the description, players must form a “death squad” and fight demonic enemies using a combination of spells in solo or multiplayer co-op play. There are three modes: Escape, Challenge, and Eternal.
You're not the only one feeling nostalgic. Some people have commented that it could be a mod for Luca Galante's popular Vampire Survivors.
“The cleanest discussion of AI so far is just stealing from artists,” one person wrote on YouTube.
“This looks like it was created by a 1-year-old with some random input into an AI generator, then greenlit by the 5-year-old of an unscrupulous corporate game studio CEO. Great job serving the slop market!” wrote another.
GROLAF certainly expects a response. In fact, it looks like they're looking to become the world's most hated developer. Some have suggested that perhaps the strategy is to sell the game to AI enthusiasts who might buy the game just to hate the anti-AI movement. Or it could be a way for new developers to get noticed before they create an actual game.
Learn more about the game on Steam.
What do you think? Are the developers intentionally stirring up controversy?
For more gaming news, check out the new Tomb Raider character design and the best games announced at The Game Awards.
