Capcom Tests AI for Vast Game Environment Ideas

Capcom is exploring the use of generative AI to streamline the creation of the vast number of design concepts required for its game environments. This initiative comes amidst rising video game development costs, prompting publishers to increasingly consider AI tools, despite ongoing controversies. Recent examples include a reportedly AI-generated cosmetic item in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 and accusations of AI use in a loading screen for a previous Call of Duty title. EA has even declared AI as "central" to its operations.

In a recent interview with Google Cloud Japan, Capcom's technical director, Kazuki Abe (known for his work on Monster Hunter: World and Exoprimal), detailed the company's AI experimentation. Abe highlighted the significant time and resources dedicated to generating the "hundreds of thousands" of unique design ideas needed for in-game assets. He cited the design of everyday objects like televisions, each requiring unique designs, logos, and shapes, as an example of the sheer volume of concepts required. This process involves numerous proposals, each accompanied by illustrations and text for communication with art directors and artists.

To improve efficiency, Abe developed a system leveraging generative AI. This system processes various game design documents and generates design concepts, accelerating the development process. The AI system also provides self-feedback, iteratively refining its output. This prototype, utilizing AI models like Google Gemini Pro, Gemini Flash, and Imagen, has reportedly received positive internal feedback. The projected outcome is a substantial cost reduction and potential quality improvement compared to manual creation.

Currently, Capcom's AI implementation appears confined to this specific system. Other crucial aspects of game development, including gameplay design, programming, and character design, remain firmly under human control.