Crystal Dynamics employs generative AI for initial prototyping phases; however, the final content is exclusively crafted by humans

Crystal Dynamics has elaborated on its use of artificial intelligence in creating Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis, shedding light on the subject to GamesIndustry.biz in response to critiques regarding its AI disclosure on the game's Steam page.

The developer explained to Eurogamer that AI tools are implemented to speed up idea iteration, enhancing the efficiency of creation while maintaining that all final content is crafted by humans. This approach aims to enhance the team's creativity and adaptability, providing top-tier gaming experiences to audience globally.

At the Summer Game Fest in Los Angeles, where the game is showcased, experience director Jeff Adams shared with GamesIndustry.biz that they use AI for preliminary level design. This entails using generative AI to validate whether certain objects should proceed to the development phase.

"If we have a concept for an in-game item and question its development worthiness, we can deploy a generative AI tool to place it within the game environment. Should it prove viable, it will funnel into our standard production process," Adams detailed. "The team will conceptualize and construct the item, ensuring that all final game elements remain human-produced."

The integration of generative AI in game production is a contentious issue, stirring debates among gaming communities, notwithstanding its ongoing application within the industry.

According to the annual GDC survey, 36% of game developers engage AI technologies. A GamesIndustry.biz survey from earlier this year highlights that many in the gaming sector advocate for clear AI usage disclosures on storefronts, even when AI is solely employed for initial concepting phases.