Polytechnique Montréal

Democratizing Game Modding with GenAI: A Case Study of StarCharM

StarCharM serves as a transformative framework for democratizing game modding by leveraging generative artificial intelligence to lower the technical barriers associated with content creation.

• StarCharM uses GPT-4o and multi-stage prompt chaining to automate the creation of complex JSON configuration files, including NPC schedules, dialogue, and trait-based gift preferences for Stardew Valley.
• The framework successfully lowers technical barriers for non-technical users, enabling them to create narrative-driven content through natural language inputs and iterative, scaffolded workflows.
• 2025 evaluations reveal a tension between accessibility and community standards, specifically citing concerns over content homogenization and the production of repetitive, robotic dialogue.