First game made entirely with generative AI now has a demo, publisher proudly announces

Some developers are reluctant to admit what impact generative AI has on their projects. However, in the case of Codex Mortis, the studio considers relying exclusively on the technology a selling point. As reported by Insider Gaming, the publisher claims it’s the “world’s first fully playable game created 100% through AI.” The bullet hell game with a Vampire Survivor influence now has a Steam demo ahead of a full release.

The statement that Codex Mortis is the only AI game is debatable. In one example, Oasis offers web-based open-world gameplay produced by the rapidly evolving technology. Even so, the publisher of the latest Steam title believes its team has employed the tools at every step of the process.

Early in 2024, Valve began requiring titles to specify any use of generative AI. In this case, the disclaimer reveals that “All code is AI vibe codes, also arts, sounds, music, texts.” In the game’s trailer, it’s obvious that the visuals weren’t designed through traditional means. The studio apparently used their own faces as inspiration, which look like they were copied and pasted onto the characters.

Can generative AI make fun games?

The fact that Codex Mortis is machine-generated doesn’t mean it doesn’t offer enjoyable gameplay. Described as “necromantic bullet hell”, players combine five types of dark magic to ward off hordes of the undead. Gamers can also assemble their own armies of these doomed souls in solo or co-op modes.

Once players boot up the free demo, the interface is somewhat confusing to navigate, especially with controllers. Before the mayhem begins, from a top-down view, the retro graphics don’t match anything seen in the YouTube trailer. That said, the visuals in more well-publicized titles like Vampire Survivor aren’t cutting-edge either.

Given the backlash against the less prevalent use of generative AI tools in games like Arc Raiders, Codex Mortis may not win over fans. Even many smaller developers aren’t willing to give this technology full creative control. Still, a low price for the final version may avoid the outrage directed at AAA projects.