Amplitude Studios has responded to accusations that the trailer for its upcoming game, Humankind 2, was generated using artificial intelligence. The developer asserts that the trailer was created through a combination of traditional filmmaking techniques and CGI, rather than AI.
To support its claims, Amplitude Studios released a behind-the-scenes video demonstrating the creation process. The studio stated that the trailer "combined live-action filmmaking, practical sets, custom-made props, costumes, visual effects, and CGI to recreate thousands of years of history in just a few seconds." The footage highlights the involvement of a human production crew and even features several animals, including five chickens, a pig, a snake, three horses, and a horde of rats, in the making of the trailer.
Developers partnered with creative agency BETC, known for its work on previous Humankind trailers, for this production. The studio emphasized that the CGI elements were handled by the visual effects company LiveFX using conventional methods. The behind-the-scenes clip also shows how CGI scenes were integrated during post-production.
Humankind 2, the sequel to the turn-based strategy game, is expected to build upon its predecessor's historical manipulation and strategic gameplay. The upcoming title will feature an updated user interface, new progression systems, and improved visuals. More details are anticipated as the game is slated for a 2027 release. The studio's parent company, Amplitude Studios, separated from Sega in 2024 during a period of restructuring for the publisher.