Microsoft’s Approach to Generative AI in Game Development
In a recent conversation with Game Developer, Guillaume Provost, the head of Compulsion Games, clarified Microsoft’s stance on the integration of generative AI within its first-party studios. Provost emphasized that there is no mandate from Microsoft compelling developers to adopt this emerging technology. “I can absolutely guarantee [that generative AI usage] is not mandated,” he stated, reinforcing the creative autonomy that studios like his enjoy.
Provost elaborated on the ethos of Compulsion Games, highlighting the studio’s commitment to craftsmanship and artistry. “You’re talking to the studio that literally builds shit by hand. In the DNA of the studio that we have, we’re very craft oriented. We’re very art oriented,” he remarked, illustrating a deep-rooted dedication to traditional game development practices.
While Provost does not dismiss the potential benefits of generative AI, he envisions its role primarily in the pre-production phase. “I think there are a lot of cases where it could be helpful in pre-production for us to do things like spitting out storyboards for us to see whether it makes sense or not— not really stuff that we use in production, but stuff that we want to accelerate,” he explained. This perspective suggests a balanced approach, where AI serves as a tool to enhance creativity rather than replace the artisanal touch that defines their games.
He further acknowledged that, given the nature of their projects, Compulsion Games may not be at the forefront of AI adoption. “Just based on the types of games that we make, I would say we are probably not the studio that will use AI the most, and I don’t think that bothers anything at Microsoft,” Provost noted. This statement reflects a harmonious relationship between the studio’s identity and Microsoft’s broader vision, allowing for innovation without compromising the essence of handcrafted game development.
