Dispatch creative director says generative AI isn’t a solution for creative problems — “Maybe it’s a creative one if you aren’t creative.”

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AdHoc Studio, the team behind the popular game Dispatch, has decided not to use generative AI in their projects.

In a recent interview with GamesIndustry.biz, creative director Nick Herman discussed the game’s strong sales – exceeding one million copies by November – and shared his thoughts on using artificial intelligence for voice acting. Herman emphasized that AI can’t replicate the quality of human performance, specifically highlighting actor Jeffrey Wright’s portrayal of the character Chase. He explained that Wright, along with the entire cast including Aaron, brought unexpected depth and elevated the game’s story in a way that AI simply couldn’t achieve.

To be honest, AI currently seems more useful for getting things done than for truly creative work. It might be helpful for creativity if you don’t consider yourself a naturally creative person.

Creative director Nick

Herman notes that using AI feels more like a tool for production than for genuine creativity, suggesting it might only be useful for those who aren’t naturally creative themselves. It builds on existing ideas, so it’s not particularly groundbreaking.

Executive producer Michael Choung emphasizes the importance of human connection in their work. “Whatever we create needs to resonate with people, and that requires a human touch,” he says. While they’re keeping an eye on AI’s progress like everyone else, they’ve found it consistently falls short of their standards. For them, ‘good enough’ isn’t good enough.

AdHoc isn’t the only company taking this stance; Obsidian Entertainment, known for games like The Outer Worlds 2 and Avowed, is also avoiding the use of AI in their projects.

Many game publishers are full steam ahead on generative AI

Some game companies are openly rejecting generative AI, but many larger publishers are actively integrating it into their development processes. For example, Square Enix, the company behind Final Fantasy, plans to use AI for 70% of its quality assurance testing by 2027. Electronic Arts, the publisher of Battlefield, has also introduced AI tools internally, though developers are reportedly finding them challenging to work with. Activision, owned by Microsoft, has faced criticism for using clearly AI-generated content – including images – in the Call of Duty series, even in the latest installment, Call of Duty: Black Ops 7.

Play Dispatch, if you haven’t already

I recently finished playing Dispatch and highly recommend it. Hearing directly from the developers at AdHoc Studio only strengthens that recommendation.

What makes Dispatch special isn’t just the game mechanics, but the quality of the writing and voice acting that bring the story to life. It’s clear a lot of work and artistry went into it.

I’m eagerly awaiting news about a second season – the developers have hinted it’s a possibility, and given the game’s success, I’m optimistic. An announcement of an Xbox Series X|S version would be fantastic as well!

FAQ

Is Dispatch confirmed for Season 2?

While a second season of Dispatch hasn’t been officially announced, the creators have suggested they’re considering it. With the game doing so well, another season is definitely a possibility.

Is Dispatch on Xbox?

I’m so excited about Dispatch! Right now, you can play it on PC through Steam, and it’s also out on PlayStation 5. The good news is, the creators have said they’re exploring the possibility of bringing it to even more platforms, which I’m really hoping they do!

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2025-11-20 00:39