Baldur's Gate 3 Astarion actor Neil Newbon has spoken out against the use of generative AI in game development, pointing to developers' hesitance to use the tools. The Baldur's Gate 3 actor believes there's no “joy” to be found in using AI to bring games to life.

Image of Astarion from torso up in character creation menu

The use of generative AI in game development is becoming increasingly contentious. As the technology has rapidly improved, some companies have jumped at the opportunity to use it to speed up development. Even Call of Duty admitted to using AI-generated assets earlier this year. However, there has been tons of pushback from creatives, which is understandable, especially given the massive number of layoffs seen in the gaming industry over the last few years.

baldurs-gate-3-new-console-mods-july-2025
Baldur's Gate 3 Console Players Have Tons of New Content to Enjoy

Baldur's Gate 3 players on consoles have tons of new content to enjoy right now.

As reported by TheGamer, Baldur's Gate 3 Astarion actor Neil Newbon has given his take in an interview with Radio Times Gaming. Newbon was blunt in his response, pointing out that developers “don't want to use AI because it's s***. It doesn't work very well, it takes a lot of effort to get something that's half-decent,” asking, “Where's the joy in it?” While pointing out that AI isn't quite flawless yet, he acknowledged the possibility that this won't always be the case, saying, “So what? Why not make it with people? Why not have more fun? I'm not interested in seeing that stuff because it is synthetic.”

Baldur's Gate 3's Neil Newbon Says "AI Sucks"

Some of Newbon's ire is directed at the fact that AI doesn't allow for what he describes as the “happy accident possibility” that often arises from human collaboration. He finishes with a two-word flourish: “AI sucks.” With plenty of developer concerns about being replaced by AI (and actors facing similar issues), it's unsurprising to hear prominent actors speak out against the technology.

Why not make it with people? Why not have more fun? I'm not interested in seeing that stuff because it is synthetic.

astarion-baldurs-gate-3-grave

Newbon isn't the only Baldur's Gate 3 actor to speak on the topic of AI. Earlier this year, Karlach actor Samantha Béart gave their take on AI, speaking similarly to Newbon against it. It's understandable why actors would particularly be against it, but some companies' determination to use it means the argument will likely continue for some time to come.

Rating block community and brand ratings Image
Baldur's Gate 3 Tag Page Cover Art
Display card tags widget Display card system widget
Systems
Display card community and brand rating widget Display card open critics widget
Top Critic Avg: 96 /100 Critics Rec: 97%
Display card main info widget
Released
August 3, 2023
ESRB
M for Mature: Blood and Gore, Partial Nudity, Sexual Content, Strong Language, Violence
Developer(s)
Larian Studios
Publisher(s)
Larian Studios
Engine
Divinity 4.0
Multiplayer
Online Co-Op, Local Co-Op
Cross-Platform Play
Full cross-platform play.
Display card main info widget end Display card media widget start Display card media widget end

WHERE TO PLAY

DIGITAL
Checkbox: control the expandable behavior of the extra info

Genre(s)
RPG