Arrowhead Game Studios, the developer behind Helldivers 2, could envision creating a game that satirizes generative AI technology, though it would likely be a new intellectual property and maintain a lighthearted tone. Chief Creative Officer Johan Pilestedt stated that such a game would need to be "quirky and fun" rather than "doom-laden."
Pilestedt suggested that while AI has been a target for parody for decades, a game focused on this theme would need to stand apart from the Helldivers franchise. The existing robot enemies in Helldivers 2, known as the Automatons, already fulfill the studio's need for mechanical adversaries and are not intended as a commentary on generative AI. Instead, the Automatons are a satirical representation of Soviet Russia. Any new game satirizing AI would need to be distinct.
Despite the potential for a parody game, Arrowhead appears open to incorporating generative AI technology within certain boundaries. CEO Shams Jorjani acknowledged the polarized debate surrounding AI in the games industry, noting concerns about job displacement and intellectual property theft. He contrasted current fears with the acceptance of older automation middleware like Simplygon, while stressing the importance of ethical AI implementation.
Pilestedt did not directly share his personal views on generative AI during the interview. However, he did discuss Arrowhead's decision not to pursue Helldivers 3 immediately, explaining the desire to maintain the current momentum of Helldivers 2. The studio is reportedly working on a new, unannounced prototype game that is significantly different from the Helldivers series.