AI is everywhere, built into many of the games we know and love today. According to GDC’s 2024 State of the Industry Survey, 49% of developers are experimenting with AI tools, especially in the areas of art and prototyping.
Additionally, some major game development companies are working on incorporating AI into game development.
He points to common pitfalls when using AI to create video games, such as anatomical errors such as the classic six fingers, distorted limbs and unnatural poses, stylistic inconsistencies, and general results that don’t stand out. These often lead to player backlash. Even if the best game mechanics and world-building technology allows for it, if the art isn’t great, it can detract from the entire game.
destroyed reputation
Why isn’t it worth using AI? First, using AI can result in reputational damage. When players see telltale signs of AI appearing in their favorite games, they typically take to sites like Reddit to tell the world about it. And the gaming press usually covers it too.
That’s what happened when Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 introduced new loading screens created with the help of AI. One image depicted a zombie Santa Claus with six fingers, a classic AI signature. This caused quite a stir on Reddit, and this whole thing was frankly embarrassing for Activision.
“Even for the most valuable franchises in the world, the reputational damage can outweigh the cost savings,” Dennis said, adding, “The message from the community is clear: shortcuts in the arts are easy to spot and can erode trust.”
When to use AI
Dennis says AI is particularly valuable in pre-production situations, such as mood boarding, concept exploration, prototyping, early ideation and brainstorming. He points out that AI is well-suited to considering “wildcard” ideas before investing an artist’s time.
He does not recommend using AI for final production art. These elements require consistency, storytelling, and emotion, which AI simply cannot provide. These assets are extremely important as they make up the player’s gaming experience. “Think of AI as a brush and the artist as a painter,” he says.
Overall, using AI in game creation is a risky business that needs to be handled very carefully. Art is the most important element when creating a world that players connect with, and how they connect with the characters and story. Taking shortcuts with AI risks damaging that connection, and the costs can far outweigh the financial savings.
When used wisely, AI can speed things up before production begins, allowing artists to focus on what they do best: creating great art that connects with audiences.
