- The publisher Running With Scissors canceled the new Postal series entry one day after announcing it, due to fan backlash over claims of AI-generated artwork.
- The canceled game, Postal: Bullet Paradise, was developed externally by Goonswarm Games and faced criticism after its trailer was released.
- Company representatives’ hostile responses on social media amplified the negative reaction.
- Goonswarm Games announced the studio’s closure following the controversy.
- Running With Scissors plans to focus on other projects slated for 2026 and reaffirmed their stance on transparency regarding AI use in game development.
Running With Scissors, publisher of the Postal game franchise, canceled the newly announced series installment, Postal: Bullet Paradise, just one day after its reveal in December 2025. Fans responded negatively, alleging that trailer artwork featured AI-generated content, which contradicted the publisher’s previous opposition to AI in creative work, as mentioned on their official X posts.
The title was developed externally by Goonswarm Games, an independent studio responsible for the fast-paced first-person shooter spinoff. The backlash intensified as Running With Scissors representatives insulted critics on X and Discord, sometimes employing offensive language. In response, the publisher publicly apologized for the conduct but did not extend the apology to those issuing death threats, citing the seriousness of such actions in their statement on X.
In a detailed message, Running With Scissors expressed that trust in the development team had deteriorated, damaging their brand reputation. They emphasized a commitment to transparency and stated plans to focus on projects scheduled for 2026. The company reassured fans that threats against staff would be addressed appropriately.
The controversy led Goonswarm Games to announce the studio’s shutdown, attributing the decision to the false AI accusations and escalating harassment from the community. They lamented that years of work ended abruptly and highlighted the challenges caused by the AI-related dispute.
The Postal franchise, known for its controversial themes and intense violence, has faced bans in multiple countries and had a poorly received 2007 film adaptation. The incident reflects broader industry tensions surrounding AI’s role in game development. Major studios like Ubisoft, CD Projekt Red, Square Enix, and Activision have integrated generative AI into their work for asset creation and production efficiency, but player pushback continues due to concerns over authenticity and copyright issues.
According to tracking site Gaming Layoffs, over 3,500 game industry jobs were cut in 2025 so far, adding to apprehension that automation may further impact employment opportunities in creative roles.
“Customers deserve to know if a game was crafted with creativity, soul and actual talent rather than some machine that craps out anything from a prompt,” Running With Scissors stated on X prior to the controversy. The company reaffirmed its dedication to its community and upcoming releases despite the recent turmoil (source).
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