Game Science is steering completely clear of generative AI during the design and asset creation stages of Black Myth: Zhong Kui, taking direct inspiration from director Christopher Nolan’s practical filmmaking approach in The Odyssey. Studio co-founder and art director Yang Qi revealed the decision during a recent Q&A, confirming that the development team intends to rely strictly on traditional, hand-crafted production methods for its upcoming action-RPG.
The choice came after Qi watched Nolan’s latest cinematic epic, which relied heavily on traditional film techniques rather than visual shortcuts. Seeing the impact of physical artistry on the big screen reminded the development team that standing out often requires staying grounded in human craft rather than adopting every emerging technology. Qi noted that the studio plans to “stand our ground until the end,” making it clear that Game Science feels no urge to rush toward automated workflow tools during development.
This firm stance places Game Science in contrast with several prominent developers, such as Stellar Blade creator Shift Up, who have actively embraced generative AI despite pushback from players and artists. While Qi clarified that his position does not stem from pure hostility toward AI technology itself, he emphasized that there is plenty of time to evaluate such tools in the future, leaving no reason to compromise the creative process on Zhong Kui. Detail on this decision was originally highlighted in a Gamersky translation on ResetEra.
Black Myth: Zhong Kui serves as the follow-up project to 2024’s hit Black Myth: Wukong, shifting focus from the agile Monkey King to the physically imposing Taoist deity known as the hunter of evil spirits. Built for PC and current-generation consoles, the title currently has no confirmed release date, though the team continues to refine its vision through bespoke visual design.
