The Last of Us star Troy Baker says generative AI shouldn’t be demonized as it will push people toward “real art”

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Baker suggested that the current anxiety surrounding the technology is likely rooted in the sheer volume of material it can produce. He admitted that AI can undoubtedly outpace humans when it comes to churning out mass-market content with ease.

However, Baker expects this saturation to eventually ignite a renewed appreciation for the “authentic.” He believes audiences will increasingly seek out “artful stories” crafted with human intent. “I think people will crave a first-hand, soulful experience rather than the distilled gruel delivered through a screen,” he explained, viewing this shift as a positive creative revolution.

As one of the industry’s most prolific actors, Baker’s optimistic perspective stands in contrast to the more polarized views held by many of his peers. While some advocate for total rejection and others for wholesale adoption, his stance finds a middle ground based on the enduring value of human touch.

Generally, creators and developers on the front lines tend to be more skeptical or outright critical of the technology, while corporate executives often focus on the efficiency gains highlighted in fiscal reports. Player sentiment remains largely negative as well, with many treating the introduction of generative AI in their favorite franchises as an unwelcome intrusion that compromises the soul of the game.

This discussion mirrors sentiments shared by Bruce Straley, co-director of The Last of Us and current head of Wildflower Interactive. Straley stated late last year that he refuses to use generative AI, even if the results become technically impressive, asserting that “prompting is not art.”

“I don’t see who this is for or why it’s being pushed so aggressively, but I don’t believe this is how we should be evolving as a species,” Straley commented.

Similarly, the developers behind Baby Steps argue that game design is a unique communion between creator and player—one that cannot be replicated by an algorithm.