As AI continues to integrate into game development, Avowed’s director, Carrie Patel, remains firm in her belief that human creativity is irreplaceable in storytelling.
The Struggles of Narrative Designers in the Gaming Industry
The gaming industry has been facing unprecedented layoffs, with narrative designers taking the hardest hit. Over 30,000 jobs were eliminated between 2023 and 2024, disproportionately affecting those responsible for crafting a game’s story and emotional depth. This trend has made breaking into the industry more challenging than ever.
Carrie Patel, who has been with Obsidian Entertainment since 2013, acknowledges how fortunate she was to have started her career when opportunities were more accessible. Today, aspiring storytellers struggle to find their place in an industry increasingly shaped by automation and corporate cutbacks.
Avowed: A Game Rooted in Deep Storytelling
Avowed, a first-person fantasy RPG set in the world of Pillars of Eternity, has now entered early access on Windows PC and Xbox Series X, with its full release scheduled for February 18. Patel, who directed the game, is thrilled to launch a title that embraces rich, immersive storytelling—especially at a time when the industry is shifting away from narrative-driven experiences.
“I think RPGs, especially the kind we make, give players an opportunity to show that they’re excited about games that are deep, nuanced, and respect their time,” Patel explains.
AI’s Role in Game Development: A Growing Concern
While AI has become a tool for game development, Patel firmly believes that great game narratives can only be crafted by skilled human writers. “Good game stories are going to be written by good narrative designers,” she asserts. Despite an increasing number of studios adopting AI technology, with 52% of game developers reporting AI use in recent surveys, Patel remains skeptical about AI’s ability to replicate the emotional depth and complexity of handcrafted stories.
Patel’s concerns echo broader discussions in the industry about the ethical implications of AI in creative fields. In fact, Eric Schmidt has also warned about the severe risks AI poses if left unchecked, reinforcing the need for responsible oversight.
The Audience Still Craves Meaningful Stories
Despite corporate interest in AI-driven game content, recent successes like Baldur’s Gate 3 prove that players still crave intricate narratives. Patel believes that games should focus on delivering memorable experiences, rather than simply maximizing playtime. “Our goal has never been to make the longest game you’re going to spend hundreds of hours in. Our goal has always been to make a really great game that gives you an adventure where you feel at the center of an immersive new world,” she explains.
Strong Leadership and a Human Touch
For Patel, strong leadership is essential in game development. A team needs clear direction while also being flexible enough to incorporate feedback. “You want a team to be an organism that is always improving,” she says. Unlike some corporate leaders who promote aggressive workplace cultures, Patel values inclusivity and collaboration in fostering creativity.
As the debate over AI’s role in game development continues, Patel and Obsidian Entertainment remain committed to delivering stories that only human writers can bring to life.
