Digital Extremes has taken a firm stance against the growing use of generative AI in game development, confirming that both Warframe and its upcoming title Soulframe will remain entirely human-made.
At a time when much of the gaming industry is experimenting with AI tools to speed up production, the studio has made it clear that it has no intention of following that trend.
A Clear “No AI” Policy
Speaking at PAX East 2026 in an interview with GameSpot, Warframe community director Megan Everett emphasised the company’s position. She stated that Digital Extremes is “a very non-AI company” and that everything in its games is created by human developers.
Everett went even further, saying that no AI-generated content will ever be used in their games. Her comments reflect a strong philosophical stance rather than a temporary decision, positioning the studio firmly against the use of AI in creative processes.
Frustration With AI in Creative Spaces
Part of this resistance comes from growing concerns about how AI is affecting art and creativity. Everett shared that she has become increasingly frustrated with the difficulty of distinguishing between human-made and AI-generated artwork.
She described how even browsing art online has become uncertain, with creators and viewers alike questioning the authenticity of what they see. This uncertainty has contributed to her strong opposition to integrating AI into game development.
A Personal Experience That Reinforced the Stance
Everett also recalled a moment from one of the studio’s weekly streams that reinforced her views. She had showcased what she believed was fan-made artwork inspired by Gundam, only to discover later that it was AI-generated.
The realisation, and the immediate reaction from viewers who recognised it, left a lasting impression. Since then, she has been more cautious about featuring artwork publicly, highlighting how deeply the issue has impacted her perspective.
Standing Apart From Industry Trends
While many studios are adopting AI tools to improve efficiency, whether for concept art, asset generation, or workflow automation, Digital Extremes is choosing a different path.
The company’s approach reflects broader concerns within the industry, where some developers worry that over-reliance on AI could diminish human creativity and threaten jobs in creative roles.
A Commitment to Handcrafted Experiences
For fans of Warframe, this decision reinforces what has long been a defining trait of the game: its handcrafted world, detailed designs, and personal artistic touch.
By rejecting AI-generated content entirely, the studio is doubling down on its belief that human creativity remains at the heart of meaningful game development.
Conclusion
In an industry moving toward automation, Digital Extremes is taking a clear stand by keeping Warframe and Soulframe fully human-made. While others explore AI-driven efficiency, the studio is betting on authenticity and craftsmanship, a decision that resonates strongly with players who value the human touch in gaming.
