The Postal series has been a staple of controversial gaming, and the latest chapter in its saga has taken a dramatic turn. A new game, Postal: Bullet Paradise, was set to be developed by Goonswarm Games. However, accusations of generative AI use in its development led to a cascade of events resulting in the game’s cancellation and the studio’s closure.
Postal: Bullet Paradise Announcement and Fallout
Postal: Bullet Paradise was unveiled with much fanfare earlier this week, introducing players to a “timeline-hopping, dystopian bullet heaven first-person shooter” experience. Within this Postal universe, players were promised the chance to unlock 11 different Postal Dudes from various timelines for chaotic gameplay.
However, fans quickly noticed elements in the reveal that suggested the use of generative AI. Although the original trailer was pulled from YouTube, you can still check it out on Steam.
Community feedback was swift and critical, with fans pointing out inconsistencies in pixel art and shading, leading many to believe in AI involvement. This isn’t the first time Goonswarm has faced similar scrutiny, as past accusations have followed its releases.
Statements and Backlash
Despite denials from both Goonswarm and Running With Scissors, tensions escalated. Goonswarm provided detailed evidence to prove human artistry, yet this did little to quell the accusations. Meanwhile, Running With Scissors’ co-owner, Mike Jeret, faced backlash for his aggressive response to the community.
Ultimately, Running With Scissors canceled Postal: Bullet Paradise, citing severe brand damage and broken trust with Goonswarm. This decisive move marked a significant shift in their approach, as they emphasized their commitment to transparency and community trust.
Impact on Goonswarm and the Future of Postal
In a sorrowful turn of events, Goonswarm announced its closure due to the controversy. The studio lamented the situation, deeply saddened by the false accusations and the subsequent storm they faced. The events have left fans divided, some hoping for a new team to take over the promising concept.
The Postal franchise has not been a stranger to controversy, often criticized for its themes. The previous installment, Postal 4: NoRegerts, faced harsh reviews in 2022. Despite this, Running With Scissors remains intent on future projects, promising updates and new games in the coming years.