Rockstar Games co-founder Dan Houser expressed skepticism about AI's capabilities during a TV appearance promoting his new novel. While confirming his studio is experimenting with the technology for an upcoming game, he downplayed its current usefulness. Houser emphasized that AI excels at some tasks but falls short of solving all creative challenges in gaming.
Background on the Appearance
Dan Houser, co-founder of Rockstar Games and known for writing titles like Grand Theft Auto V and Red Dead Redemption 2, appeared on Channel 4's Sunday Brunch on November 24, 2025. The interview focused on his new novel, A Better Paradise: Volume One - An Aftermath, which explores AI characters and the tech industry's influence. The book shares a universe with an upcoming video game from his studio, Absurd Ventures, still a few years from release.
Houser's Views on AI
Houser revealed that Absurd Ventures is 'dabbling in using AI' for the game, particularly in its story featuring AI elements. However, he cautioned against the hype surrounding the technology. 'The truth is a lot of it's not as useful as some of the companies would have you believe yet,' Houser said. 'It's not going to solve all of the problems... AI is great at some of the tasks and can't do the other tasks yet.'
He criticized tech companies for overpromising, suggesting such claims are often 'to sell AI stock' and require massive investment to realize potential. Houser views AI as part of broader computing advancements, best suited for mundane tasks rather than genuine creative work.
Broader Gaming Context
Houser's comments come amid AI controversies in the industry. Ubisoft faced backlash for AI-generated art in Anno 117: Pax Romana, while Activision admitted using AI for 'Ghibli-style' elements in Call of Duty: Black Ops 7. Arc Raiders also drew criticism for AI voiceovers, prompting calls for regulation from Congressman Ro Khanna.
On gaming's future, Houser described it as a balance between art and commerce. '[Gaming] can either go somewhere really interesting or somewhere that gets overly focused on making money,' he said. He believes creative potential remains high for 'living narrative experiences,' as pursued in his Rockstar work, and predicts both commercial and artistic paths will coexist.
