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Microsoft Launches Quake 2 Demo That’s Almost Unplayable

Apr 07, 2025 10:57 AM

Microsoft has unveiled a demo inspired by Quake 2, utilizing its new generative AI tool called Muse. While the demo aims to showcase AI's potential in game design by dynamically generating gameplay sequences, players have described it as nearly unplayable due to poor visuals, lagging controls, and lack of coherent gameplay experiences. The AI's extremely limited memory results in frequent changes to the game environment with each player action, severely detracting from the experience. Although it raises questions about the future of AI in gaming, the demo fails to deliver a satisfactory experience reminiscent of the original Quake 2.

Is the new Quake 2 AI demo worth playing?

No, the demo is largely unplayable due to poor performance factors such as blurry graphics, unresponsive controls, and a lack of coherent gameplay, making it unsuitable for fans seeking a true Quake 2 experience.

Quake 2 is a classic first-person shooter released by id Software in 1997. Known for its gameplay innovations and competitive multiplayer, it has remained a significant title in gaming history. The game's impact is profound, helping to shape the FPS genre and establishing a dedicated player base. The recent AI-driven demo seeks to modernize elements of this iconic game but ultimately fails to deliver an experience worthy of its legacy.



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Jordan Keats

Jordan Keats is a former professional gamer turned journalist, whose competitive background gives them a unique perspective on esports and multiplayer games. Jordan's expertise in strategy and game mechanics is unmatched, offering readers a deeper understing.

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Sephiroth Sephiroth commented on: 2025-04-07 11:12:08
This feels like AI trying to remix a classic song and ending up with elevator music—interesting concept, but the execution misses the mark entirely. It’s cool to see AI flex its creative muscles, but maybe game design needs a bit more human touch to stay fun.
Rolling R!ck Rolling R!ck commented on: 2025-04-07 11:06:09
AI-generated game design sounds cool in theory, but this demo feels more like a tech experiment than something gamers would actually enjoy. Maybe next time they'll nail the balance between innovation and playability. Watching this AI stumble through Quake 2’s legacy is like seeing a robot try to skateboard—kinda fascinating, but mostly just painful to watch.
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