Codex Mortis: The First Fully AI-Generated Game

Codex Mortis, developed by Grolaf, also known as Crunchfest, is being marketed as the world's first fully playable game created entirely through artificial intelligence (AI). This game, inspired by the popular title Vampire Survivors, features assets, code, and music generated exclusively by AI tools. The development process took three months, with the game described as a necromantic survival bullet hell where players battle waves of demonic enemies while utilizing dark magic.

Interesting EngineeringIs the 'first 100% AI video game' the ultimate rage bait?This roguelite claims to have the dubious honor of being 'the world's first fully playable game created 100% through AI' in a milestone for slop everywhereHere's "the world's first fully playable game created 100% through AI"

The game's development eschewed traditional game engines, relying instead on a combination of TypeScript, PIXI.js for rendering, bitECS for the entity-component-system backend, and Electron to package it as a desktop application. Grolaf utilized ChatGPT for artwork generation and custom shaders for animations, stating that maintaining a consistent art style was challenging but achievable with the help of AI. The developer noted that this approach was less mentally taxing compared to conventional app development.

Here's "the world's first fully playable game created 100% through AI"

Codex Mortis allows players to mix five schools of dark magic, unleash spell synergies, and raise undead armies. It supports both solo and cooperative gameplay, offering various modes such as Escape, Challenge, and Eternal. The game is currently available as a free demo on Steam, which has received a 'Mixed' rating from users.

Interesting Engineering

The announcement of Codex Mortis has sparked considerable debate within the gaming community. Many commenters on platforms like Steam and Reddit have expressed skepticism about the game's quality, with some labeling it as "garbage AI slop" and questioning the artistic merit of AI-generated content. Critics argue that the game exemplifies a troubling trend in the industry, where AI is seen as a shortcut rather than a tool for genuine creativity.

Is the 'first 100% AI video game' the ultimate rage bait?

Conversely, some voices in the AI game development community have shown curiosity about the project, although many responses have been deleted, indicating a polarized reception. The game's trailer, which features a robed sorcerer vanquishing a demon labeled "AI antis," has further fueled discussions about the implications of AI in game development.

This roguelite claims to have the dubious honor of being 'the world's first fully playable game created 100% through AI' in a milestone for slop everywhere

While Grolaf claims that Codex Mortis is a pioneering effort in AI-driven game development, others point to previous projects, such as David Friedman's Doomscroll, which also utilized AI for game creation. This raises questions about the validity of the "world's first" claim. Critics have suggested that the game's marketing strategy may be intentionally provocative, aiming to attract attention from both supporters and detractors of AI technology in gaming.

Is the 'first 100% AI video game' the ultimate rage bait?

Grolaf has emphasized that the project was an experiment to explore the feasibility of creating a game entirely with AI. He noted the challenges faced during development, particularly in integrating Steam with Electron, and expressed a sense of accomplishment in achieving a playable product.

Interesting Engineering

• “Maintaining a consistent art style was tricky, but GPT managed to remember what visual style I liked and kept it consistent across different sessions,” — Grolaf, Developer

Here's "the world's first fully playable game created 100% through AI"

• “And the most important takeaway: compared to traditional app development, this is way less mentally draining – kind of like giving an exoskeleton to a construction worker lol.” — Grolaf, Developer

Here's "the world's first fully playable game created 100% through AI"

• “This looks like a 1 year old made it by typing random stuff in an AI generator, and then a corrupt corporate game studio CEO's 5 year old gave it the green light. Great job contributing to the slop market!” — Anonymous Commenter

Is the 'first 100% AI video game' the ultimate rage bait?

• “(Image credit: GROLAF / AI-generated) ”The cleanest argument for AI just steals from artists yet,” one person writes on YouTube.” — Anonymous Commenter

Is the 'first 100% AI video game' the ultimate rage bait?

As Codex Mortis continues to develop, its reception will likely influence future discussions about the role of AI in creative industries.

Is the 'first 100% AI video game' the ultimate rage bait?