Obsidian Entertainment Stands Firm Against Generative AI in Game Development
Obsidian Entertainment’s Stance on Generative AI: A Commitment to Human Creativity
As generative AI technologies infiltrate various sectors, including the gaming industry, Obsidian Entertainment stands out for its commitment to traditional storytelling and human creativity. In recent interviews with GameFile, key figures from Obsidian—Josh Sawyer, Kate Dollarhyde, and Leonard Boyarsky—expressed their views on integrating AI into game development. Their responses reflect a deliberate choice to prioritize authenticity over artificial.
A Different Approach
While many gaming companies are quickly adopting AI tools in their workflows, Obsidian’s leadership has made it clear that generative AI does not fit into their creative process. In a candid moment, Boyarsky mused about his previous optimism regarding AI-powered writing, noting: “I would want to smack my past self upside the head” due to how quickly such ideas can become "unwieldy." This sentiment resonates deeply in an industry that often prioritizes speed over substance.
When directly asked if Obsidian is using generative AI, Sawyer answered definitively that it is “not something we’ve used,” with Boyarsky echoing the sentiment that the studio “hasn’t been using it at all.” Such statements are especially telling for a team known for its productivity. In 2025 alone, Obsidian launched three major titles: Avowed, Grounded 2 (currently in early access), and The Outer Worlds 2. Managing this level of creative output with a small team of around 285 employees is no small feat, showcasing their dedication and skill.
Landscape of AI in Gaming
Contrasting Obsidian’s stance, other major players in the gaming industry are diving headfirst into AI integration. Electronic Arts (EA) has reportedly mandated its developers to utilize AI tools, which has led to various internal challenges, including the necessity to address “hallucinations” created by the technology. In a similar vein, Square Enix announced plans for 70% of its quality assurance work to be handled by generative AI by 2027, while Krafton is pushing for a complete adoption of AI systems by mid-2026. Such aggressive AI strategies raise questions about the quality and authenticity of future gaming experiences.
Why Obsidian’s Stance Matters
Amid this wave of AI adoption, Obsidian’s refusal to embrace generative AI offers a refreshing perspective. Their focus on human creativity ensures the narratives they craft are rich, nuanced, and reflect the artistry of their developers. In a world where AI could potentially dictate much of the content, retaining a purely human touch in game development fosters a deeper connection with players.
Moreover, Obsidian operates under Microsoft, a company actively investing in AI. It’s commendable that Obsidian has carved out its own identity by prioritizing storytelling over technological convenience, signaling a commitment to artistic integrity in an age of automation.
Looking Ahead
As players, we benefit from Obsidian’s refusal to utilize generative AI in creating their upcoming titles. Games like Avowed and The Outer Worlds 2 promise to deliver authentic experiences crafted by skilled hands, devoid of algorithmic influence.
If you haven’t explored their recent titles yet, now is the perfect time. Check out reviews of Avowed, The Outer Worlds 2, and early impressions of Grounded 2 to fully appreciate what a dedicated human team can accomplish.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Obsidian Entertainment’s decision to remain steadfast against generative AI in their writing process is not just a stance against technology; it’s a heartfelt commitment to preserving the artistry of storytelling. With their recent projects showcasing remarkable creativity and innovation, players can look forward to more incredible experiences crafted with care and passion. In a world increasingly leaning towards automation, Obsidian serves as a reminder of the irreplaceable value of human creativity in gaming.