Larian Studios' hiring practices under scrutiny amidst GenAI backlash
The gaming industry is abuzz with the recent controversy surrounding Larian Studios and its use of generative AI. But amidst the furor, another issue has emerged: the studio's hiring practices. Game writers and narrative designers are speaking out, not just about Larian's use of GenAI, but also about what they perceive as poor hiring practices. This includes the controversial practice of asking writers to perform unpaid writing tests during the interview process.
The controversy of writing tests
When applying for a writing position at a game studio, it's common to be asked to submit a resume and undergo multiple rounds of interviews. However, a point of contention arises when writers are asked to perform these tests for free. Studios typically compensate the few finalists for their time, as they are already applying for a job. Yet, Larian Studios, according to game writer Zoë Quinn, does not offer payment for these writing tests.
Quinn's experience with Larian's recruitment process is telling. They were approached by the studio but ultimately declined due to Larian's strict no-remote-work policy and the requirement to complete an unpaid writing test that would also need to be playable.
Industry-wide concerns
Bruno Dias, a game writer with credits on titles like Pathologic 2 and Neo Cab, echoed similar sentiments. He stated that Larian's hiring process is an 'open secret' in the industry, involving excessive amounts of unpaid work, numerous interviews, and months of back-and-forth communication. This sentiment is shared by many in the narrative design community, who have heard these stories from multiple sources.
Julie Muncy, a writer on Interstate 35, added, "If you see narrative people being meaner about Larian than it sounds like they deserve, trust me, we've been waiting for this one. The thing about Larian is that I think a lot of us were biting our tongues out of respect for the writers working there and the stuff they did make. But if Larian doesn't respect those either, then, like, that incentive disappears."
Cat Manning, a narrative designer at Firaxis, hinted at a connection between Larian's use of generative AI and a misunderstanding of proper hiring practices, particularly regarding unpaid writing tests.
The silence of game writers
Olivia Wood, another game writer, offered insight into why the narrative design community has remained silent on these issues. They explained that writers and designers have been cautious not to burn bridges, as job opportunities in the industry are scarce.
The industry's reaction
Despite the backlash, Larian Studios continues to face criticism for its use of generative AI and its hiring practices. The studio's response to the initial backlash has only fueled the fire, and critics are now speaking out louder. This has led to a reevaluation of Larian's reputation, as some once considered it an industry darling.
Interestingly, Daniel Vávra, the founder and creative director of Warhorse Studios, has been the only major studio to come to Larian's defense regarding its use of GenAI. However, the debate rages on, and the industry awaits further developments in this ongoing controversy.
