**Larian Studios Responds to AI Debate: A Dedication to Creative Principles**

Shortly after comments regarding artificial intelligence (AI) ignited considerable discourse among fans and industry analysts, Larian Studios co-founder Swen Vincke has offered an in-depth examination of the studio’s beliefs concerning AI technology in game creation. This reply is part of an enhanced initiative to tackle worries arising from the studio’s recent trials with generative AI, especially concerning their forthcoming RPG, *Divinity*.

In a message on X (previously known as Twitter), Vincke underscored that Larian Studios’ fundamental belief centers on enabling its teams to leverage their abilities and creativity. “Our achievements derive from empowering individuals to operate in their own style and maximize their skill & craft, so that we can develop the finest RPGs possible,” he commented. This principle is essential to Larian’s development methodology, which strongly prioritizes the significance of human ingenuity in conjunction with the exploration of cutting-edge technological advancements.

The uproar started when reports indicated that Larian was employing generative AI for tasks such as placeholder text, presentation materials, and concept art references. While Vincke has reassured fans that AI is not meant to supplant human creativity, skepticism and discontent from the community arose concerning the implications of AI employment in creative sectors. Critics expressed ethical worries regarding AI’s dependence on pre-existing artistic works and the concern that the studio’s revered standards might be undermined.

In light of immediate pushback, Vincke clarified that Larian had no plans to substitute its skilled concept artists with AI. “Holy fuck guys we’re not ‘pushing hard’ for or replacing concept artists with AI,” he remarked, emphasizing that the studio’s workforce is made up of creatives selected for their talent rather than for their capacity to adhere to AI-generated recommendations. He instead positioned AI as a resource for artists to explore, aimed at alleviating their workload and fostering creativity rather than stifling it.

Despite these reassurances, dissatisfaction remained among fans. Vincke acknowledged the necessity to clarify the studio’s stance on AI and the ongoing conversation surrounding it. He recognized the polarizing nature of the issue and its effect on the community’s view of Larian Studios, committing to address these matters more thoroughly in a forthcoming AMA (Ask Me Anything) on Reddit scheduled after the holiday break.

In his complete statement, Vincke reaffirmed Larian’s pledge to responsibly assess new technologies while focusing on autonomy, creativity, and efficient workflows. He stressed that any changes in their development practices would correspond with their core beliefs and the expectations of their audience.

The impending AMA will serve as a venue for fans to directly pose inquiries about *Divinity* and how Larian intends to incorporate AI into their development processes, providing further insight into the studio’s creative methodologies and the role of AI in the future of gaming.

Vincke wrapped up with warm wishes for the holiday season, indicating a cooperative spirit within the industry as Larian navigates the intricacies linked to the implementation of AI in game development. The studio’s strategy underscores the delicate balance of embracing innovation while remaining conscious of its effects on creativity and artistic integrity.

**Naughty Dog’s Continuing Struggles with Crunch During Development of _Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet_**

Last year, developer Naughty Dog published a documentary that explored the creation of _The Last of Us Part II_, highlighting the studio’s issues with overwork and crunch culture. Although the documentary ended on a hopeful note implying improvements, recent reports suggest that the team is facing the same pressures while working on their forthcoming PlayStation 5 game, _Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet_.

A report from Bloomberg indicates that Naughty Dog has required overtime from its developers as they rush to complete a demo of the new sci-fi action game for Sony’s assessment. Despite the game’s launch being several years away, the company has urged employees to work at least eight additional hours weekly, monitoring these hours via an internal spreadsheet. While management has directed developers not to exceed 60 hours of work per week, the enforcement of mandatory overtime casts doubt on the studio’s work environment.

This new wave of overtime commenced in October and coincided with a return-to-office policy that mandates all staff to be present at the Santa Monica studio five days a week instead of the regular three. Employees have expressed difficulties in arranging extra childcare and pet care to meet this new obligation.

The drive for heightened productivity follows earlier claims that Naughty Dog brought on board a new group of producers specifically to address crunch concerns. However, several of these recruits have reportedly departed from the company, suggesting possible underlying issues within the studio. While some team members were able to work overtime to prepare _Intergalactic_’s debut trailer for 2024, the current overtime demands impact “most” staff members.

Management has informed employees that a return to the usual three-day work week is anticipated in January, with additional information to follow after the holiday break. In an ironic twist, to mark the ongoing development, team members received commemorative metal coins engraved with a quote from the game, symbolizing the persistent challenges faced by the developers: “The suffering of generations must be endured to achieve our divine end.”

Reports of crunch culture at Naughty Dog are not unprecedented, with the development of _The Last of Us Part II_ being especially infamous for such practices. Notably, in 2023, the studio also terminated many contractors approximately a year before the announcement of _Intergalactic_ at the 2024 Game Awards. As reports continue to emerge, the industry observes closely to see if Naughty Dog can navigate these ongoing difficulties while working on its ambitious new title.

### Boycott Microsoft: An Appeal from Indie Developer Dan DiIorio of *Luck Be a Landlord*

In a significant move within the gaming realm, Dan DiIorio, the mind behind the indie slot machine game *Luck Be a Landlord*, has called on fans to avoid buying the game on Xbox. This plea arises from his disapproval of Microsoft’s backing of Israel amidst the ongoing strife in Palestine. DiIorio has voiced his support for the Palestinian cause and is advocating for a Microsoft boycott.

On December 18th, DiIorio shared a message from the investigative gaming platform *People Make Games*, which underscored the ongoing boycott against Xbox due to its participation in the Israel-Palestine dispute. Subsequently, he made a personal appeal, urging fans explicitly, “Please do not buy *Luck Be a Landlord* on Xbox.” He committed to donating $10,000 to The Palestine Children’s Relief Fund, with the intention of counterbalancing any income generated for Microsoft from his game.

Initially launched on PC in 2023, *Luck Be a Landlord* is a roguelike slot machine title that enables players to handle their finances and pay rent through an upgradeable slot machine mechanism. After its successful release on PC, it was adapted for consoles, including Xbox, earlier this year.

In his correspondence with *Kotaku*, DiIorio encouraged supporters to think about donating to The Palestine Children’s Relief Fund, irrespective of their intentions to buy the game on Xbox. He also proposed that Xbox Game Pass subscribers consider terminating their memberships in light of the current geopolitical circumstances.

DiIorio’s position is not unique; he is part of a rising movement within the indie game development sphere aiming to separate themselves from Microsoft regarding the Israel-Palestine issue. Earlier in April, the creators of *Tenderfoot Tactics* took their game off the Xbox store as a sign of solidarity with the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) initiative against Israel. They issued a public statement expressing their hope that Microsoft would listen to the united voices of workers and consumers demanding an end to business relations with the Israeli military.

The appeal for a boycott has ignited conversations not only on social media but also throughout the wider gaming community, as developers and fans alike grapple with the intricacies of political activism in gaming. This ongoing situation stands as a powerful reminder of how the gaming industry overlaps with global concerns, urging developers and consumers to take a position amid challenges.

As the boycott movement evolves and continues to influence companies like Microsoft, it is yet to be determined how this will impact the availability and sales of titles like *Luck Be a Landlord* on platforms embroiled in these political discussions.