Cyberpunk 2077 Sequel Developers Grapple with AI’s Future, Game’s Narrative Reflects Concerns

CD Projekt Red, the developers behind the anticipated Cyberpunk 2077, are stepping into their next venture, "Project Orion", with a reflective approach towards artificial intelligence (AI). Gabe Amatangelo, the game director, shared insights on utilizing AI in game development in a recent discussion. While recognizing the benefits of AI in streamlining development tasks, Amatangelo expresses concerns, particularly around AI's role in crafting narratives.

During a chat with IGN, it was revealed that Amatangelo has been pondering over remarks from an AI specialist regarding the enigmatic methods applied by large language models in formulating their responses. The expert described this characteristic as positive, but it raises concerns for Amatangelo, prompting him to question the transparency of AI operations. His perspective leans towards harnessing AI for the more mundane aspects of game development, thereby freeing human developers to focus on the enriching creative elements of the process.

Amatangelo shared his gut feeling that AI holds promise primarily as an aid in development pipelines and tools, targeting the mundane tasks that often are less appealing. This approach, he believes, has the potential to make developers' jobs more fulfilling by allocating more time to creative endeavors.

However, Amatangelo doesn’t disregard the narrative capabilities of AI within the realm of Cyberpunk. He admits that the menacing possibilities tied with AI, although intimidating, could serve as intriguing narrative elements within the game, offering players a deep dive into the technology's potential perils.

In line with their ambitions to better themselves post the launch of Cyberpunk 2077, CD Projekt Red is keen on leveraging AI to aid in the development of Project Orion. The studio has instituted protocols to ensure effective communication, meticulous planning, and support for their teams, aiming to diminish the prevalence of crunch time. Spearheaded by their new Boston branch, the development of "Project Orion" is in its nascent stages, referred to by Amatangelo as the "fun phase", with scant details currently available.

Drawing lessons from the experiences gathered during the creation of Cyberpunk 2077, the development of "Project Orion" symbolizes an exploration into the potential and anxieties surrounding artificial intelligence, awaiting to unravel the promises it holds for the future of gaming.