Pocketpair lead on generative AI: Gamers don’t want it
Pocketpair, the developer behind the popular survival game Palworld, has firmly positioned itself against generative AI in game development. In recent comments to GamesRadar, John Buckley, the studio’s communications director and head of publishing, stated: “Gamers don’t want it, and if the gamers don’t want it, I guess that’s it, right? Not much of a conversation to be had.”
The studio confirmed it does not use generative AI technologies in Palworld’s development. Buckley emphasized the importance of preserving in-house artists, questioning the rationale for replacing human creativity with AI-generated content: “There’s no reason to get rid of [our in-house artists] for the sake of an AI doing it. Just seems pointless.”
Buckley acknowledged that some major industry figures, including executives at PlayStation and Epic Games, view AI as a future driving force for game development. He also noted that some studios like Sega use AI as temporary development placeholders without including it in final releases. However, he expressed skepticism about how long the industry’s AI trend will persist, stopping short of calling it a “bubble” but doubting its long-term viability.
Pocketpair’s stance reflects a broader divide within the gaming industry. Generative AI has received largely negative reception from both developers and players in recent years, with critics arguing it has a corrosive effect on creative work and employment. The studio’s position prioritizes player preferences and artistic integrity over technological adoption, demonstrating resistance to an industry trend gaining traction among larger publishers.