The development of artificial intelligence (AI) technology is increasingly permeating various creative industries, including the gaming industry. However, not all game studios have welcomed this trend.
A Japanese game development studio reportedly implemented a unique selection method in its recruitment process: asking applicants to draw live in front of interviewers. This measure was taken to ensure candidates truly possess genuine drawing skills, rather than relying on generative AI-generated images.
The Gaming Industry’s Concerns About Generative AI
In recent years, generative AI has been increasingly used to instantly create illustrations, character concepts, backgrounds, and even game assets. Several large companies have even utilized this technology to reduce production costs.
However, on the other hand, this practice has sparked controversy. Many developers and players believe that excessive use of AI can degrade artistic value, harm human artists, and raise ethical and copyright issues.
Legendary film director James Cameron even called the development of AI “terrible” if not properly controlled. Similar views are also emerging among game developers, particularly in Japan, which is known for its high value on craftsmanship and originality.
Japanese Studio Changes Game Artist Recruitment System
According to a report by Japanese media outlet Daily Shincho, cited by Automaton Media, a mid-sized game studio in Japan—whose identity remains undisclosed—is experiencing serious problems recruiting illustrators and graphic designers.
Several new hires were found to be relying too heavily on generative AI to create visual assets. This despite the fact that they had presented convincing portfolios when applying.
Feeling aggrieved, the studio ultimately completely changed its selection process. Now, every artist candidate is required to draw directly on the job interview site, without the aid of AI tools or digital references.
Drawing Test Administered Live During Interview
The studio’s chief graphic designer revealed that the test aims to assess candidates’ basic skills, including:
Understanding of anatomy
Visual composition
Consistency of drawing style
Speed and manual drawing technique
“We do feel like we’re going back to the old days. This process is more tiring for recruiters, but it’s the most effective way to ensure candidates truly possess the skills,” he said, speaking anonymously.
He also added that their studio isn’t the only one implementing this method. Several other game companies in Japan have reportedly begun using similar methods to maintain the quality and originality of their work.
Pros and Cons Within the Company
While this policy is considered effective, not everyone within the studio agrees. Some staff believe the company should adapt to the times by hiring AI experts, rather than rejecting them.
According to the same source, there is an internal coktoto debate between those who want to maintain manual creative processes and those who see AI as a productivity tool of the future.
The lead graphic designer even admitted to worrying that his influence within the company will diminish as the push to integrate AI into the game development pipeline intensifies.
Global Trends: Between Efficiency and Originality
This case reflects a global dilemma in the gaming industry. On the one hand, AI promises incredible efficiency, accelerating asset production and reducing costs. On the other hand, concerns have arisen regarding:
The loss of jobs for human creators
The decline in artistic quality
Plagiarism based on AI training data
Over-reliance on technology
The Japanese studio has chosen to take a firm stance: prioritizing human creativity above all else.
This decision does make the recruitment process longer and more tedious, but it is considered essential to maintaining the visual identity and artistic value of the games they develop.
The Future of the Gaming Industry in the AI Era
With the advancement of generative AI, it’s likely that selection methods like live drawing tests will become more common, especially in studios that prioritize artistic quality.
In the future, the gaming industry will likely be divided into two major camps: studios that fully embrace AI, and those that continue to rely on the human touch as the core of creativity.
Whichever the choice, one thing is clear—the debate between technological efficiency and the authenticity of human work will continue.