Neowiz Seeks AI Creator for Round8 Studio’s Next Game

Neowiz has put up a job listing for an ‘AI Creator’ position connected to a secret project from Round8 Studio, the team behind the hit game Lies of P. The listing specifically seeks someone to ‘leverage generative AI technology’ in the art production pipeline. This indicates a clear shift in strategy for the South Korean publisher.

This role is part of Round8 Studio, which released Lies of P in September 2023, receiving both strong sales and critical acclaim. The game earned 93% positive reviews from over 35,000 Steam ratings — a fantastic achievement for a studio’s first project in this genre. As reported by Shacknews, the listing outlines responsibilities focused on integrating generative AI tools directly into the creation of visual assets, rather than just using them as additional tools.

Neowiz hasn’t clarified if AI-generated assets will actually make it into the final product or just be used for internal reference and brainstorming. This detail is crucial for the game’s existing fanbase, who reacted negatively on Steam to the news.

The timing of the announcement is interesting, especially considering the goodwill Lies of P earned through its handcrafted art direction. The game’s unique Geppetto-meets-Belle Époque visual style set it apart in a crowded Soulslike market. Players are understandably worried that incorporating generative AI might compromise what made that aesthetic appealing. Priced at $59.99 on Steam, the title still holds a full retail price, raising concerns about any perceived drop in quality for the follow-up.

Round8’s next project hasn’t been officially announced yet, leaving many questions about its scope, timeline, and the significance of the AI Creator role in the overall production. Whether Neowiz views generative AI as a way to cut costs or speed up production, the hiring has already sparked noticeable backlash before any footage of the new game has been revealed.

By The Numbers

Steam Review Score	93% Positive
Total Steam Reviews	35,028
Current Steam Price	$59.99
Current Concurrent Players	1,817
Release Date	September 19, 2023

Community reactions to the listing have turned quite negative. One Steam reviewer commented: “I like this game a lot, but the creator has decided to start hiring Generative AI instead of humans. So I, as an artist, gamer, and human being who likes living without a 40,000-acre data center…” This sentiment highlights wider industry concerns about the environmental impact of generative AI and its potential to replace human creative workers. Similar responses have appeared repeatedly in the game’s review section since the listing went live.

What To Watch

• Whether Neowiz puts out a public statement to clarify how AI will be used — especially if generated assets will be included in the final product or just for internal production.
• Any changes in Lies of P‘s Steam review score, which currently stands at 93% positive. This score could shift if the backlash escalates into a coordinated review-bombing effort.
• Round8 Studio’s official announcement regarding their next project, which will give the first real indication of how prominently AI-assisted art will feature in the studio’s future creative direction.