Blue Archive Producer Reveals: “Nobody Wants to Pay for AI-Generated Art”
Highlighting AI’s Role in Reducing Mundane Tasks
Highlighting AI’s Role in Reducing Mundane Tasks
Yongha Kim, producer of Blue Archive and head of Nexon Games’ IO Division, shared his perspective on the use of AI and machine learning tools in game development during a presentation titled “Developing bishojo games in the age of AI,” reported by Korean media outlet GameMeca.
Kim clearly stated that while AI can be useful in handling behind-the-scenes tasks, using AI to create visuals or characters isn’t yet a solution for players. Yongha Kim stated, “Players who enjoy character-based games don’t like AI-generated content. Even I find it reluctant to pay for visuals generated with a single click.”
“AI Still Can’t Replace Humans”
Kim elaborated on AI’s current limitations. When he tested AI for level design by letting it play Sokoban puzzles, the results were underwhelming: even slight increases in difficulty overwhelmed the AI, making level creation even more challenging. Newest models still couldn’t solve puzzles from Ace Attorney, either Thisisgame Thailand.
AI also struggled with motion capture and rigging—misaligned skeletons resulted in dysfunctional character movements, undermining research claims on AI’s effectiveness. As Kim candidly put it, “I tried for a couple of months… then gave up.” Thisisgame Thailand
Where AI Truly Helps: Behind the Scenes
Despite these creative shortcomings, Nexon Games does use AI internally—for things like chatbots that summarize meetings, manage holiday schedules, and translate languages—relieving the team of repetitive tasks. The real win in the game itself? AI-assisted animation: the “zoom-in” sequence when players pull a new character in Blue Archive used to take 2 full days—but with AI, it now takes only 30 minutes.
Kim stressed that AI shouldn’t replace humans, but support them—cutting redundant work so developers can focus on creative efforts. He firmly believes roles like Machine Learning Engineer and Technical Artist will become even more vital in the future.
According to the report, Nexon Games’ IO department even includes a dedicated Machine Learning team to build long-term supportive tools for game developers
About Blue Archive
Blue Archive is a 3D cartoon-style action RPG with super-cute SD graphics. Developed by NAT Games and published by Yostar—famous for Arknights and Azur Lane—the game marks a full transition to 3D while retaining charm that fans love.
Final Thoughts
This perspective sheds light on a meaningful truth: AI excels at streamlining repetitive work, but falls short in tasks rich with emotional nuance—like art or puzzle design. What players value most is creativity and authenticity, which only human touch can deliver. The future lies not in full automation, but in thoughtful collaboration—where AI amplifies human imagination, not replaces it.
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#AI #GameDev #BlueArchive #MachineLearning #CreativeWork #HumanTouch
