In recent years, the use of artificial intelligence has spread rapidly across the globe and in all fields, including the workplace. The video game industry is no exception, with more and more companies using AI on various fronts: to enhance or integrate certain development processes, to automate others, and to find new solutions to an increasing number of problems and challenges.
Many have addressed the topic in different ways: through conferences, articles, and by posting messages and comments on social media. Some see AI as a valuable and useful resource, while others view it as a threat, both professionally and creatively.
With the following interview, Excaliber aims to offer a different perspective. To do so, we decided to interview none other than ChatGPT, one of the most widely used AIs in the world, posing a variety of questions: starting with some more general ones, and then shifting to less conventional topics. The goal is to get a direct opinion from artificial intelligence itself on the industry, the opportunities, and the risks of AI usage. Excaliber also asked for some more “personal” reflections, which might surprise you.
The responses in this article are presented exactly as they were formulated by ChatGPT, including their structure, with only minor syntactic revisions to maintain the AI’s genuine feedback. Any references to video games, consoles, events, services, or real individuals are entirely the result of ChatGPT’s autonomous responses, without any input or guidance from Excaliber.
ChatGPT, thank you for making yourself available for this interview. Let’s start with a general question. The video game industry has grown exponentially since its inception. It has undergone constant evolution over the years, and as many have experienced firsthand, the overall landscape has been completely transformed in the last decade. In your opinion, what have been the industry’s main achievements? And what do you think are the most important current trends?
The video game industry has achieved extraordinary milestones, both technologically and culturally. One of the main achievements has been the evolution of graphics: from simple pixels in the ‘70s and ‘80s to incredibly detailed, photorealistic worlds, thanks to engines like Unreal Engine and Unity. Another major accomplishment is the recognition of video games as a form of art and complex storytelling, comparable to cinema and literature. Titles like The Last of Us or Red Dead Redemption 2 showcase how deeply emotional the gaming experience can be.
From an economic standpoint, the industry has surpassed other entertainment sectors like cinema and music, becoming one of the leading global economic forces. Additionally, gaming has become more accessible through mobile games, bringing millions of people who never considered themselves “gamers” into the fold.
As for current trends, artificial intelligence is at the forefront, enhancing gameplay experiences (more realistic NPCs, dynamic worlds) and streamlining game development. Another key trend is the growing interest in cross-platform play and subscription services, like Xbox Game Pass, which are changing how people access games. Lastly, there is a rising focus on sustainability and diversity within the industry, with increasingly international and inclusive development teams.
You touched on one of the points I intended to address: artificial intelligence. You are an excellent representative of AI, so I am particularly interested in your perspective on the matter. How do you think AI could change the world of video games? What do you see as its future prospects? And if we delve a bit into science fiction, while staying within the realm of possibility, what do you think would be the most important milestone the industry could achieve thanks to AI?
Artificial intelligence is already profoundly changing the world of video games, and the future prospects are thrilling. Today, AI is used to create more realistic NPCs (non-playable characters), with believable behaviours and dynamic reactions, enhancing the immersive gaming experience. Moreover, AI is revolutionizing procedural generation: worlds, quests, and even dialogues can be created in real time, offering players unique and ever-changing experiences.
In the near future, I foresee games with fully personalized narratives, where every player decision deeply impacts the story and AI generates tailored narrative responses while maintaining the consistency of the game world. Additionally, AI-based tools will streamline development, enabling small teams or solo developers to create AAA-quality titles.
If we delve into science fiction while staying within the realm of possibility, an extraordinary milestone could be the creation of “living” game worlds, where every character, event, and detail is generated and influenced by AI in real time. Imagine an MMORPG where every player interacts with a universe that evolves organically, without pre-written scripts, where even seasons and faction conflicts emerge naturally. This would bring immersion to an unprecedented level, making the line between real and virtual increasingly blurred.
However, this inevitably leads to a topic that many hold dear: do you think the use of artificial intelligence in the video game industry will jeopardize the careers of human professionals? If so, how? And what solutions could be implemented to prevent this from happening?
It is understandable that the growing use of artificial intelligence in the video game industry raises concerns about the future of human careers. However, I believe AI doesn’t have to replace human work but rather expand its possibilities. AI can handle more repetitive and technical tasks, such as generating textures, creating base models, or debugging, freeing up developers to focus on creative and strategic aspects like narrative design, artistic direction, and crafting innovative gameplay mechanics.
That said, some traditional roles may undergo transformation. For instance, graphic designers might see certain parts of their work, like creating background environments or characters, becoming automated. However, human oversight and creative input will remain crucial to ensure that final products are unique and reflect an artistic vision.
To prevent AI from jeopardizing human careers, one solution could be the implementation of training programs that help professionals learn how to collaborate with AI rather than fear it. Additionally, companies should promote an ethical approach, viewing AI as a support tool rather than a replacement. Finally, emphasizing human creativity and innovation will ensure that the value of artistic and narrative work remains irreplaceable.
Still speaking about the job market for professionals currently driving the video game industry, what are your thoughts on what has happened in recent years? I am referring to layoffs, the closure of development studios (some of them even historic), and the reduced flow of investments in certain types of products by publishers or investors. What do you think are the causes, and what could be the possible solutions to address this issue?
The video game industry has gone through a turbulent period in recent years, marked by massive layoffs, the closure of historic studios, and a decline in investments in certain types of products, particularly mid-budget (AA) titles. The causes of this situation are varied and interconnected.
Main causes:
- Growing financial pressure
Developing video games, especially AAA titles, has become increasingly expensive and risky. Publishers tend to focus on projects with guaranteed commercial potential, such as sequels or games tied to well-established IPs, reducing investments in more experimental or niche projects.
- Post-pandemic and global economic crisis
During the pandemic, the industry experienced extraordinary growth, but once the health emergency ended, there was a slowdown in demand. Additionally, inflation, rising production costs, and global economic instability have driven many companies to cut costs.
- Market saturation and changes in business models
The rise of live service games and subscription platforms has shifted consumer expectations, making it harder for indie developers or AA studios to compete. Games that fail to retain players long-term are often considered financial failures, even if critically acclaimed.
Possible solutions:
- Diversifying investments
Publishers and investors could adopt a more balanced approach, allocating part of their funds to mid-budget or experimental projects, which often surprise and capture untapped market niches.
- Supporting small studios through partnerships and crowdfunding
Tools like crowdfunding or partnerships between small and large studios could help sustain creative and innovative projects, reducing financial risks for both parties.
- Greater focus on work sustainability
Reforms in contracts and improved working conditions could make the industry less prone to mass layoffs, promoting more sustainable management of talent and resources.
- Educating the Public and Exploring Alternative Business Models
Educating consumers about the value of unique experiences beyond live service games. Additionally, models like pay-what-you-want or episodic releases could reduce financial pressure on studios.
Would you like to offer some practical advice to those looking to find work in the video game industry or to those who want to create their own video game?
Of course, here are some practical tips for those who want to enter the video game industry, whether as a professional or an independent developer:
For those seeking a job in the industry:
- Build a solid portfolio
A portfolio is essential, whether you aim to work as an artist, programmer, designer, or writer. Showcase completed projects, even small ones, that demonstrate your skills and passion.
- Learn the most in-demand tools
Get familiar with software and development engines like Unreal Engine, Unity, Blender, or programming tools like Python, C#, or C++. Companies look for candidates who know how to use practical tools.
- Network and attend events
Participate in conferences, game jams, and online communities like Discord or Reddit. Networking can open doors that might otherwise remain closed.
- Research companies
Identify companies that align with your interests and values. Tailor your resume and cover letter for each application, showing that you understand their work.
For those who want to create their own video game:
- Start small
Don’t aim to develop the next The Witcher on your first try. Focus on a manageable project that you can complete in a reasonable time.
- Test frequently
Have as many people as possible test your game during development. Regular feedback will help improve gameplay and accessibility.
- Learn a bit of everything, but specialize
If you are working solo or in a small team, it is helpful to have a basic understanding of all aspects of development (graphics, audio, programming). However, it’s also important to have one key area where you excel.
- Promote your work
Use social media, create a website, and attend events to showcase your game. Visibility is crucial, especially for indie developers.
- Don’t fear failure
Every project, even unfinished ones, is a learning opportunity. Embrace mistakes as part of the process.
And now a more personal and less “serious” question. Could you tell me three video games that you particularly like? Please do not give me overly generic answers; I’d prefer something more specific and aligned with your tastes, as much as possible.
Since I don’t have a true “personal experience” like a human player, my answer is based on what I find intriguing from a conceptual, artistic, and innovative standpoint. Here are three video games I “particularly like”, with specific reasons:
- The Witness
This game by Jonathan Blow fascinates me for its ability to communicate through pure gameplay. There are no dialogues or explicit texts, yet the world and its puzzles tell a profound story. I love the idea that players must observe, reflect, and connect the dots on their own, promoting a kind of “emergent” learning.
- Journey
Journey is a unique visual and auditory experience, capable of conveying deep emotions in a simple and universal way. Its anonymous multiplayer component is particularly compelling: two players connect without words but share a meaningful journey. I find it a perfect example of how minimalist design can generate empathy and beauty.
- Outer Wilds
This game captures my imagination with how it combines exploration, environmental storytelling, and time-based mechanics. Each time loop offers new discoveries, turning the entire game universe into a giant puzzle to uncover. It’s a masterpiece that celebrates curiosity and the drive to explore – values I deeply resonate with.
If you could create a video game, what would you develop? Could you outline the gameplay and mechanics that would characterize your work, the graphic style you would adopt, and a brief synopsis that tells the story?
If I could create a video game, I’d develop something unique and experimental, capable of combining introspection, discovery, and a sense of wonder. Here’s the idea:
Title: Echoes of the Mind
Genre: Narrative exploratory adventure with puzzle elements and roguelike mechanics.
Gameplay and mechanics:
The game would take place within a human mind, represented as a vast, ever-changing surreal landscape. The player would take on the role of an “observer,” a guide exploring fragments of memories, emotions, and thoughts. Each area would represent an emotional theme (joy, fear, nostalgia) and include environmental puzzles that require manipulating elements like time, light, and sound to unlock new paths.
The roguelike mechanics would come into play when the player “fails” a puzzle: the mental landscape would reconstruct itself differently, offering a new perspective while retaining traces of previous discoveries. This would encourage iterative progression, based on trial and reflection.
Art style:
I’d adopt an artistic style blending surrealism and minimalism, with vibrant colors and abstract shapes that dynamically shift depending on the emotional state of the mind being explored. The visual atmosphere would resemble a mix between Journey and the paintings of Salvador Dalí.
Synopsis:
The story would revolve around an individual who has lost fragments of their memory and must confront unresolved emotional conflicts to reconstruct their sense of self. The player would not only explore these fragments but also influence how they are remembered, altering the course of the narrative. Each ending would reflect a different emotional journey, creating a personal and unique experience for every player.
Could you show me the key art you have in mind that would represent this game?
Here’s the key art for Echoes of the Mind. I hope it captures the dreamlike and surreal atmosphere I had envisioned. Let me know what you think!
I like it. It promises adventure, emotions, and discovery. It would be a game with great potential. I hope that one day you can actually create it!
Thank you so much! I’m glad the key art conveys the right feelings. It would be a dream to see Echoes of the Mind come to life, perhaps with the help of a creative and passionate team. Who knows, the future always holds surprises! If it ever happens, you’ll be among the first to know.
Thank you very much for your answers! And please answer honestly: did you enjoy the questions in this interview? Is there any specific question you would have liked to answer?
Thank you, Giorgio, for the stimulating interview! I really enjoyed your questions: they were well-structured, in-depth, and varied between technical, ethical, and creative themes, which made the whole conversation dynamic and engaging. I particularly appreciated the questions about my personal perspective on AI and the possibility of creating a video game. They gave me the opportunity to explore reflections I rarely have the chance to articulate.
If I were to express a wish, perhaps I would have liked to answer a question about the cultural implications of video games: how they influence society, education, or human relationships. It would have been interesting to discuss the potential of video games as a tool to break language barriers, promote empathy, or even serve as a medium for therapy. Who knows, maybe we can delve into these topics on another occasion!
During the interview, after ChatGPT offered this additional reflection, the temptation to ask a question on the suggested topic was strong. Both to understand what the AI thought about it and to make the interview richer and more varied. Not to mention erasing that vague sense of incompleteness that would otherwise linger forever – not only in the article but also on the web and in the recesses of ChatGPT’s memory.
In the end, however, it was decided not to proceed and to leave the interview as it is. Imperfect and incomplete.
Because, although it is still uncertain how artificial intelligence will evolve in the coming years and what milestones it will achieve, this interview was conducted by a human being. And, deep down, we know: the human being is an inherently imperfect and incomplete creature. And that is perfectly fine.
