Summary: Foamstars, a PlayStation exclusive shooter game developed by Square Enix, will feature AI-generated art for certain assets, according to producer Kosuke Okatani. While the majority of the game is handcrafted by developers, the inclusion of AI-generated art, created using the controversial AI tool Midjourney, adds a unique aesthetic element. This move aligns with Square Enix’s stated commitment to leverage AI and other cutting-edge technologies in content development and publishing. However, the use of AI in creative industries, including video games, has sparked controversy and concerns among artists and voice actors.
Foamstars embraces AI-generated art as a distinct feature, incorporating it into the game’s in-game album covers for music tracks. Square Enix utilized Midjourney, an AI tool known for turning text prompts into visual art, to create abstract images that were incorporated into the final album covers. Okatani clarified that while AI-generated content constitutes a mere fraction, approximately 0.01% or less, of the overall game, it serves as an experimental exploration of AI’s potential.
The integration of AI in Foamstars reflects Square Enix’s progressive approach to game development and seeks to enhance the player experience with innovative visuals. The company’s president, Takashi Kiryu, expressed previously the intent to leverage AI and cutting-edge technologies to augment content development and publishing.
Nevertheless, the use of AI-generated art has been met with mixed reactions. Notable figures such as filmmaker Tim Burton have found AI art creations to be disconcerting. The controversy surrounding AI extends beyond the visual aspects, as voice actors have voiced concerns over AI-generated voices and mods. In response to these challenges, voice actor Cissy Jones established Morpheme.ai, a company that aims to empower voice actors in embracing AI and maintaining control over their own voices.
With Foamstars’ integration of AI-generated art, Square Enix brings a fresh, visually intriguing experience to players while simultaneously contributing to the ongoing dialogue surrounding AI’s impact on creativity and artistic expression in the gaming industry.
The source of the article is from the blog macnifico.pt