Key Takeaways
- Fntastic is facing backlash for using generative AI in its new game, ITEMS.
- The studio is utilizing ChatGPT to generate character bios for upcoming prop hunt game.
- Many are unhappy with AI replacing human creativity in gaming.
The studio behind the highly controversial release of The Day Before, Fntastic, has acknowledged that its newest in-development project, ITEMS, is being created with the use of artificial intelligence. Fntastic faced major backlash after The Day Before was released, with the project being accused of false advertising and quickly getting pulled from storefronts. Hoping to move on from the blunder, Fntastic has once again sparked ire among audiences for the implementation of generative AI in its upcoming title.
Players may recall the controversial launch of The Day Before, which was met with unanimously negative responses from audiences and critics. The release had a number of unfortunate bugs and failed to meet consumer expectations of an open-world action survival game. After a number of layoffs, Fntastic quickly changed direction and began working on new projects, the latest of which has once again been met with backlash from fans.
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According to a comment posted by one of the Fntastic developers in an official Discord server, the team has utilized ChatGPT to write character bios for its upcoming prop hunt game, ITEMS. The studio has been open about its use of community-created content, such as game maps, in the development process for ITEMS, and Fntastic has now confirmed that it is further sourcing outside help with the use of AI-generated descriptions. Fntastic is not the first studio to utilize artificial intelligence in video games, but audiences have voiced disappointment in the developer for not creating its own content. Some have accused the studio of taking advantage of community members for free labor, while others have questioned whether there is a lack of passion among the team that would result in ChatGPT being used instead of a talented writer.
Fntastic Relying on ChatGPT and Community Content to Develop New Game
The studio has stated that “ChatGPT was used to expand and improve” ideas by team members, though many remain unsatisfied with this explanation. Many have pointed to Fntastic’s prior accusations of unfinished work with The Day Before and its failed Kickstarter campaign for another project as evidence that the studio may not be allotting the necessary dedication to ITEMS. However, the company has remained adamant that its “huge desire” for making games is being paired with doing the best job possible. Whether Fntastic will be able to win back audiences with ITEMS remains to be seen, as many are keeping a weary eye on the continued use of unpaid community content and artificial intelligence in the game.
Artificial intelligence may have a number of important uses, but many remain unhappy with the implementation of AI in place of human creativity. Audiences have praised developers over the years for originality in video games, with storytelling and design being among the creative highlights of many releases. As such, many remain uncertain of the future of ITEMS and other potential titles from Fntastic, though the company remains insistent that all is being done for the benefit of the players.
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