Warhorse Studios confirms use of AI in Kingdom Come RPGs
Intelligence Summary
- Warhorse Studios explains how it uses AI without replacing human developers, following recent layoffs.
Warhorse Studios confirms use of AI in Kingdom Come RPGs
Warhorse Studios, the Czech developer behind the Kingdom Come RPG franchise, has recently confirmed that it uses artificial intelligence (AI) systems. During a Reddit AMA (Ask Me Anything), the team said these investments are not meant to replace human employees. "Some team members find AI useful during the early stages of production. However, we do not use AI-generated content in the final game, and we have no plans to change that in the future," the studio said.
Situation around a translator layoff
Questions about AI use surfaced after the announcement that one developer, Max H., considered his role as a translator to be "obsolete." This was attributed to Warhorse’s attempt to be "more efficient" and "save money." The studio said it takes the community’s concerns seriously: "We hear you and your concerns. Hopefully this clarifies the situation a bit," Warhorse said.
Hiring process resumes
Although the studio treats Max H.’s dismissal as an internal HR matter, Warhorse is currently in the process of hiring new English translators. "The new translators will be real people," the studio emphasized. That offers a meaningful response to concerns about possible job losses stemming from AI use.
Recent developments in the game industry
Warhorse follows the successful release of Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 in 2025. The studio is currently working on a new "immersive" RPG, which some believe could be a new The Lord of the Rings game. While the debate over AI in the game industry continues, Warhorse is not the only studio to confirm AI-driven workflows. Last year, for example, several other developers, including those behind Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, also said they use AI systems, prompting mixed reactions.
Timeline
1 May 2026: Warhorse Studios responds to accusations that it laid off a developer for financial reasons using AI.
2025: Release of Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, which drew the attention of the gaming community.
2026: Warhorse Studios says it is in the process of hiring new English translators who have not been replaced by AI.
The debate over AI use in the game industry remains complex. AI systems are not new in gaming, but the rise of generative AI has raised questions about the impact on jobs and the creative role of humans in the development process. This is a topic that will continue to concern many developers as the technology evolves.
