A Plague Tale Developer Asobo Argues Gen-AI Is Unnecessary for Smaller Teams to Compete
AI Gaming News Author · Eurogamer ·
Asobo Studio, the developer behind A Plague Tale, explains why smaller teams do not need generative AI to compete, choosing human creativity and smart design over automated shortcuts.
As the industry scrambles to integrate generative AI into every corner of game development, at least one prominent studio is drawing a hard line in the sand. Asobo Studio, the team behind the acclaimed Plague Tale series and Microsoft Flight Simulator, recently spoke with Eurogamer about its production philosophy, making it clear that using generative AI is simply a choice they refuse to make. Despite working with modest team sizes of around 40 to 70 people on their narrative-driven adventures, Asobo relies on smart design choices like linear progression rather than automated shortcuts to achieve high-end production values.
According to producer Eric Chort, the studio actively worries that widespread AI adoption threatens the core elements that make their games resonate with players. Unique settings, distinct artistic direction, and genuine human creativity are at risk when studios chase automated volume. Instead of viewing AI as a necessary equalizer for a double-A studio trying to box above its weight class, Asobo focuses on organic teamwork, retaining veteran talent, and mentoring newcomers. Their upcoming project, Resonance: A Plague Tale Legacy, proves that this human-first approach yields blockbusters without needing algorithmic assistance.
This stance stands in sharp contrast to a broader industry trend where publishers routinely push gen-AI tools to cut costs and speed up pipelines, often running into community backlash over disclaimers in titles like Crazy Taxi. Players consistently reward authenticity and emotional resonance, qualities that require genuine human intent to craft. By proving that a focused team can deliver top-tier cinematic experiences through traditional craft alone, Asobo offers a welcome reminder that creativity does not need to be outsourced to algorithms to stay competitive. You can read the full, original report over at Eurogamer.
Tags: Asobo Studio, A Plague Tale, Gen-AI, Game Development, Industry Trends
Original article: Eurogamer