After AI slop accusations, Humankind 2 studio says its new trailer was definitely “made by humankind” and at least five chickens
Amplitude Studios has denied that its recent Humankind 2 reveal trailer was created using AI, after online accusations of "AI slop" followed its Gamescom ONL debut. The studio, working with longtime creative partner BETC, has released a behind-the-scenes video showing a full human production crew and live animals involved in the shoot, aiming to counter claims that generative AI was used to produce or enhance the footage.
The original trailer blended live-action filmmaking, practical sets, custom props and costumes with visual effects and traditional CGI handled by studio LiveFX, rather than AI tools, to depict thousands of years of history in a short clip. The behind-the-scenes footage reveals the human and animal cast involved, including five chickens, a pig, a snake, three horses and numerous rats, alongside the post-production process behind the CG shots. Humankind 2, a turn-based strategy sequel featuring an updated UI, new progression systems and improved visuals, is due for release in 2027; Amplitude split from publisher Sega in 2024 amid the company's broader restructuring.
In short
- Amplitude Studios denies AI was used in Humankind 2's reveal trailer
- Behind-the-scenes video shows human crew and live animals on set
- Humankind 2 launches in 2027, following Amplitude's 2024 split from Sega
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
The studio’s account is supported by behind-the-scenes footage showing a human crew, practical production and conventional CGI, so it is reasonable to see the trailer as a labour-intensive creative work rather than AI-generated material. Showing how it was made also responds to audience concerns about transparency and gives credit to the people and animals involved.
The case against
Viewers may reasonably remain cautious because behind-the-scenes footage does not, by itself, establish every tool used throughout production or post-production. They may also feel the trailer’s stylised visuals invited questions about AI, and that studios should provide clear, verifiable disclosures when audiences cannot readily distinguish AI-assisted imagery from traditional effects.
Explained simply
Humankind is a strategy game series by Amplitude Studios in which players guide a civilisation through different periods of history. Its sequel, Humankind 2, is planned for release in 2027, with updated visuals and changes to how players progress through the game.
The studio worked with its creative partner BETC on the reveal trailer, which compresses thousands of years of history into a short film. Live action, sets, props and costumes were combined with visual effects and computer-generated imagery (CGI) by production company LiveFX.
The trailer drew online claims that it used generative AI, software that can create or alter images and video. Amplitude has said the footage was made by people and involved live animals; the debate reflects growing scrutiny of how AI is used in creative work.
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