Capcom explores AI assistance for game environment design
Technical director reveals new system to streamline object creation in video game development.

Capcom is taking steps toward incorporating artificial intelligence into its game development process, with technical director Kazuki Abe at the helm of this initiative. The company’s recent exploration focuses on using generative AI to assist with the creation of environmental elements in their games.
The gaming industry has shown mixed reactions to AI implementation. While some developers like Ken Levine see AI as a tool for handling routine tasks, others have faced criticism for more extensive AI usage, such as The Finals’ implementation of AI-generated voice acting.
In a detailed discussion with Google Cloud Japan, Abe revealed that Capcom has developed a prototype system utilizing AI models including Gemini Pro, Gemini Flash, and Imagen. This system assists in generating ideas for the countless objects needed in game environments. For instance, when creating a television for a game world, the system helps conceptualize various aspects from logos to specific details.
Capcom’s AI prototype receives positive feedback from development teams
The new system aims to streamline the extensive process of creating proposals for the thousands of objects found in modern video games, from everyday items to specific assets seen in titles like Resident Evil 2. According to Abe, the prototype evaluates generated concepts based on pre-established criteria, with development teams reportedly responding positively to initial results.
While the current implementation focuses solely on environmental elements and object design, the system does not extend to core aspects such as gameplay mechanics, narrative development, or character design. This limited scope reflects the ongoing debate within the gaming industry about the appropriate role of AI in creative development processes.