UPDATE 11/19: Fntastic has reached out to clarify that no AI has been used in the development of its new gameITEMS. The comment in the Discord server was from a fan, not an actual Fntastic developer.
The article has been updated accordingly.
Fntastic faced major backlash afterThe Day Beforewas released, with the project being accused of false advertising and quickly getting pulled from storefronts. Hoping to move on from the blunder, Fntastic has moved on to new gameITEMS, though it too has found itself at the center of controversy.
Players may recall thecontroversial launch ofThe Day Before, which was met with unanimously negative responses from audiences and critics. The release had a number of unfortunate bugs and failed to meet consumer expectations of an open-world action survival game. After a number of layoffs, Fntastic quickly changed direction and began working on new projects.
A since-clarifiedreport by TheGamersaid that a comment posted in an officialDiscordserver claimed the team utilized ChatGPT to write character bios for its upcoming prop hunt game,ITEMS. Fntastic would not be the first studio to utilizeartificial intelligence in video gamesif that were the case, but the comment was actually made by a fan, not a team member. This led to some confusion about whether ChatGPT was being used to makeITEMSor not, but Fntastic has said thatno AI is being used in the development of the game.
Fntastic Relying on ChatGPT and Community Content to Develop New Game
Many have pointed to Fntastic’s prior accusations ofunfinished work withThe Day Beforeand its failed Kickstarter campaign for another project as evidence that the studio may not be allotting the necessary dedication toITEMS. However, the company has remained adamant that its “huge desire” for making games is being paired with doing the best job possible. Whether Fntastic will be able to win back audiences withITEMSremains to be seen.
As such, many remain uncertain of the future ofITEMSand other potential titles from Fntastic, though the company remains insistent that all is being done for the benefit of the players.
The Day Before
WHERE TO PLAY
The Day Before offers players a uniquely reimagined journey into post-apocalyptic open-world MMO survival set in the present day on the US East Coast following a deadly pandemic.SURVIVE AT ALL COSTSFight other players for survival. Survive against the deadly infected. Collect valuable loot.DISCOVER THE NEW POST-PANDEMIC WORLDExplore the beautiful and richly detailed New Fortune City. Enter tall skyscrapers, business centers, massive malls, grand stadiums, and more. Uncover distant surroundings of New Fortune City on stunningly detailed vehicles.REBUILD SOCIETYJoin the Woodberry survivor colony on its mission to rebuild society. Trade items in Woodberry and save your wealth in a personal storage room. Build your own home in the safe zone.
