As artificial intelligence continues to transform the game development industry, narrative designers like Carrie Patel are emphasizing the importance of human creativity in crafting engaging stories.
Carrie Patel, director of the game Avowed, has seen firsthand the challenges faced by narrative designers in the video game industry. With over a decade of experience at Obsidian Entertainment, she understands how difficult it can be to break into the industry. ‘It just seems to be harder and harder to find a path in,’ Patel says. ‘I’ve heard colleagues hired within the last three or five years say essentially the same thing.’
Patel‘s own career began in 2013 when she started as a narrative designer on Pillars of Eternity, a role-playing game released in 2015. She went on to work on the narrative design for The Outer Worlds and is now leading the development of Avowed, a first-person fantasy RPG set in the same universe as Pillars of Eternity. The game’s official launch is Tuesday, February 18.
Despite the growing use of artificial intelligence (AI) in game development, Patel believes that it can’t replace human creativity. ‘I don’t think any technology is going to replace human creativity,’ she says. ‘I think what makes our games special, our stories special, and our dialogs and characters special, are things that I haven’t seen any AI replicate.’
Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the game development industry by automating repetitive tasks, enhancing gameplay, and creating immersive experiences.
Machine learning algorithms can generate realistic environments, characters, and sound effects.
AI-powered tools also optimize game performance, reduce development time, and improve player engagement.
The use of AI in game development has increased by 30% in the past year, with major studios investing heavily in AI research and implementation.
Patel‘s comments echo those of other developers who are skeptical about the role of AI in game development. While some companies may be using generative AI to develop games, Patel believes that human narrative designers are essential for creating engaging and immersive stories.
Patel is excited to launch Avowed, which she hopes will appeal to players who are looking for a more thoughtful and complex gaming experience. ‘Our goal has never been to make the longest game you’re going to spend hundreds of hours in,’ Patel says. ‘Our goal has always been to make a really great game that gives you an adventure that you feel like you’re at the center of in this immersive new world.’
Ultimately, Patel believes that strong leadership and a commitment to diversity and inclusion are key to creating successful games. ‘You want a team to be an organism that is always improving,’ she says.
