Chinese dev denies AI made Zoopunk, defends human creation in Xbox showcase
▼ Summary
– TiGames defended Zoopunk against generative AI allegations, clarifying that all core game content was created by human artists.
– Generative AI will only be used in Zoopunk to assist players with user-generated content like vehicle skins and clothing color schemes.
– Zoopunk is a fully 3D sequel to TiGames’ 2021 game FIST: Forged In Shadow Torch, featuring rabbit protagonist Rayton in a post-apocalyptic sci-fi world.
– The developer emphasized that Zoopunk is still in development and aims to collaborate with players to improve the game through early feedback.
– Zoopunk has no confirmed release date and is being developed for PS5, Xbox, and PC platforms.
Following its prominent appearance in Microsoft’s Xbox Game Preview Event, the action-packed game Zoopunk has found itself at the center of a debate regarding the use of generative AI in its development. Developer TiGames has firmly addressed these concerns, clarifying that while AI technology is present, it functions strictly as a player assistance tool rather than a replacement for human creativity.
Skepticism emerged when viewers connected Zoopunk’s trailer to a separate Nvidia presentation focusing on generative AI for non-playable characters. That demonstration featured a developer interacting with an NPC using voice commands to modify a spaceship’s design, accompanied by a description highlighting “player-driven generative AI in next-generation games.” This led some to question the extent of AI’s role in Zoopunk’s creation.
In response, TiGames issued a statement emphasizing that all core artistic content is the result of dedicated human effort. The studio explained that generative AI will be integrated exclusively to help players produce their own user-generated content more easily. This includes designing vehicle skins, selecting clothing color schemes, and similar customizations. According to the developer, AI acts merely as an enabling tool for the modding community, supporting player-led secondary creations without generating primary game assets.
Zoopunk represents a significant evolution from TiGames’ earlier title, FIST: Forged In Shadow Torch. While the previous game was a 2.5D Metroidvania, Zoopunk is a fully 3D adventure that continues the story of Rayton the rabbit. The latest footage showcases the trench coat-clad protagonist navigating a post-apocalyptic sci-fi landscape on a motorcycle, engaging in combat using dual energy swords against various creature-people.
Reflecting on the decision to move forward with Zoopunk, the development team shared on Steam that they spent considerable time exploring how to expand the world of Torch City. After cycles of excitement and careful consideration, they committed to building upon the universe established in FIST. The studio also acknowledged that Zoopunk remains a work in progress, inviting early community feedback to help shape the game alongside its player base.
Currently, Zoopunk does not have a confirmed release date. Development is underway for PlayStation 5, Xbox, and PC platforms.
(Source: Euro Gamer)
