Raph Koster’s Playable Worlds Integrates Didimo’s AI Popul8 for 3D Character Creation

Raph Koster’s Playable Worlds is developing a massively multiplayer online (MMO) game that will leverage Didimo’s AI-powered Popul8 tool to automatically generate 3D characters.

This collaboration marks a significant achievement for Didimo, a Porto, Portugal-based company that utilizes AI to create diverse variations of 3D characters designed by human artists. With the increasing demand for varied characters in gaming, this innovative approach aids developers in keeping pace.

While the use of AI for character generation may raise concerns about job displacement for human artists, Didimo emphasizes that its technology complements rather than replaces artistic talent. As noted by Didimo's leadership during interviews at the recent Dice Summit, their tools start with original artwork created by human artists.

Didimo’s Popul8, which debuted last year, stands out as a patented platform that streamlines and automates the creation of varied and unique 3D characters for games and entertainment. This technology allows developers to generate, edit, and manage thousands of unique characters efficiently, enhancing the diversity and uniqueness of game populations.

Koster, a renowned game developer with a history of creating MMOs such as Star Wars Galaxies and Ultima Online, recognizes the potential benefits of Didimo’s tools. Didimo has also contributed character art for titles like Colossal Order’s Cities: Skylines II.

In Koster's words, “We are delighted that Popul8 offers flexible character customization that accelerates our character artists' workflows, allowing every player to express their unique identity.”

Founded by Koster and Eric Goldberg, Playable Worlds is committed to producing immersive and diverse experiences in cloud-native online environments. The partnership with Didimo aligns with their mission to empower players to craft a wide range of distinctive virtual identities within the forthcoming MMO.

Playable Worlds aims to redefine world simulation through its cloud-native architecture, overcoming the restrictions of traditional gaming frameworks. With Didimo's advanced character customization, this ambitious project is poised to deliver rich player experiences.

Veronica Orvalho, CEO of Didimo, expressed excitement, stating, “The incredible game worlds achievable with characters designed using Popul8 are inspiring as we continue to innovate to meet the evolving needs of developers and the expectations of players.”

This collaboration highlights the growing significance of cutting-edge character creation technologies in the gaming industry, positioning Popul8 as an essential resource for developers focused on enhancing efficiency, creativity, and player engagement. Based in San Marcos, California, Playable Worlds is dedicated to building immersive multiverse experiences that offer diverse social integration and improved player retention.