Hellraiser
News, coverage and analysis tracking Hellraiser across the outlets.
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Saber Interactive's Tim Willits on generative AI, moving development out of North America, and embracing recognisable IP
Saber Interactive's Chief Creative Officer Tim Willits discusses the company's stance on generative AI, stating they are experimenting with it but not replacing human developers. He also highlights Saber's strategy of global development across 15 studios, focusing on AA titles and recognizable intellectual property, emphasizing disciplined budgeting and flexible team structures.
'There is absolutely no generative AI in Space Marine 3' promises Saber Interactive executive
Saber Interactive's Chief Creative Officer Tim Willits stated that their upcoming game, Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2, will not utilize generative AI in its development. While Saber is experimenting with AI in smaller projects like Rideshare Stimulator, they are being cautious with major titles, especially those with licensed properties like Warhammer 40,000.
Fall’s Video Game Release Slate Is Intimidatingly Good And Completely Doomed
The Fall 2026 video game release schedule is packed with highly anticipated titles, but this glut is predicted to cause a 'bloodbath' in the industry. Intense competition for consumer dollars and a worsening global economy are expected to lead to significant underperformance, layoffs, and potential studio closures, particularly for smaller developers. Even major publishers may struggle to navigate the crowded market, with few likely to emerge unscathed.
id Software's former co-owner says they absolutely would've used gen AI back in the day: 'John Carmack…
Former id Software co-owner Tim Willits discusses the potential and current limitations of generative AI in game development, noting Saber Interactive's experiments with the technology in 'Rideshare Simulator'. He believes a groundbreaking AI-driven game, akin to 'Half-Life 2' for its impact, will eventually emerge, though acknowledges current implementations often fall short. Willits also speculates that id Software would have embraced generative AI if it were available during their pioneering days.
"Somebody will make the Half-Life 2 of AI" - after the Rideshare controversy, Saber CCO says something will come along and "change people's minds" about gen-AI
Saber Interactive's Chief Creative Officer Tim Willits believes a groundbreaking game akin to "Half-Life 2 of AI" will emerge, changing public perception of generative AI in gaming. Despite recent controversy surrounding its use in "Rideshare Stimulator," Saber is experimenting with AI, with Willits emphasizing the need for innovation and the potential for AI to create new experiences, drawing parallels to the initial skepticism surrounding Steam.
Baptiste’s New Trailer Proves You Should Never, Ever Trust A Creepy Doll
A new trailer for the upcoming psychological horror game Baptiste has been released, showcasing its creepy doll antagonist and oppressive atmosphere. The game, set after a family tragedy, tasks players with guiding the protagonist Tom to safety while uncovering secrets and solving puzzles. Baptiste is slated for release on PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch.
Former Epic Games VP appointed Saber Interactive's chief business officer
Steve Allison, formerly the vice president of Epic Games, has been appointed as the new chief business officer at Saber Interactive. In his new role, Allison will oversee publishing, marketing, and revenue generation, reporting directly to CEO Matthew Karch. He expressed excitement about Saber's upcoming projects, including Space Marine 3, Jurassic Park, Turok, Hellraiser, and a John Wick game.
Former Epic Games VP Steve Allison appointed chief business officer at Saber Interactive
Former Epic Games vice president Steve Allison has been appointed chief business officer at Saber Interactive, where he will oversee publishing, marketing, and revenue opportunities. Allison brings over thirty years of industry experience, including his work on the Epic Games Store. Saber Interactive was previously owned by Embracer before being sold to Beacon Interactive, a company founded by Saber's CEO Matthew Karch.
"This has got to be the most awesome toaster ever": Saber on building upon hits like Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2
Saber Interactive's Chief Creative Officer Tim Willits stated that Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 was a pivotal success that changed how the studio approaches game development and how they are perceived. He indicated that the studio is in a strong position, able to turn down more licensed game opportunities than they accept, and plans to continue working on adaptations of existing properties like Hellraiser and World War Z, noting the success of the latter may even inspire a new movie.
Alongside its own big successes, Saber Interactive is sticking with indies - here's why
Saber Interactive's Tim Willits and Todd Hollenshead discussed the studio's commitment to supporting indie games, even as they work on their own larger titles like Warhammer 40k: Space Marine 2. They highlighted lessons learned from working with smaller teams on games like Bus Bound and The Knightling, emphasizing the importance of focused game design and proper scoping. Saber Interactive aims to continue partnering with independent developers in the future.
Saturday Multiplex
This article rounds up recent official trailers, including one for a Hellraiser-themed escape room on Steam's closed playtest and a gameplay teaser for Lords of the Fallen 2.
Hellraiser PS5's Latest Trailer Is Too Gruesome for Sony's YouTube Channel
A trailer for the upcoming PlayStation 5 game Hellraiser, showcasing its violent Genesis Configuration mechanic, was censored on Sony's YouTube channel due to its gruesome content. The game, inspired by Clive Barker's work, features combative puzzle box elements and supernatural abilities. While an official release date is unconfirmed, it is expected before Halloween.
Quoteworthy
The extreme horror game Hellraiser has received its ESRB rating, with developers stating that no content was removed. Separately, a co-founder of Call of Duty alleged that Activision pressured Infinity Ward to develop a game about Iran invading.