Game Development
Ongoing coverage on Game Development.
Latest coverage
Solo dev plans to "beat the real GTA 6 to launch" with their own, AI-fueled version of Rockstar's…
A solo developer is creating their own version of Grand Theft Auto 6, aiming to release it before Rockstar Games' official title. The project, initially built with Godot and now using Unity, incorporates AI-generated assets and aims for a similar aesthetic to Rockstar's upcoming game. The developer has expressed ambitious goals, including beating the official release and seeking volunteer help.
Take-Two CEO reaffirms GTA 6 release date and says the wait is so long because Rockstar 'seek to do something…
Take-Two Interactive CEO Strauss Zelnick has reaffirmed that Grand Theft Auto 6 will launch on November 19. He stated that Rockstar Games is taking a long time to develop the game because they aim to create something unprecedented. Zelnick also discussed the company's strong financial performance and offered business advice.
Nexon Developers Conference 26 Opens Today
The Nexon Developers Conference (NDC) 26 has opened, focusing on Artificial Intelligence in game development. The conference, held by NEXON Korea Corporation, features 51 sessions covering planning, production, and live operations, with a special emphasis on how AI can streamline experimentation and creative processes. The event also includes exhibitions of Nexon IP artwork and game sound production.
Tomo: Endless Blue has hit three of its stretch goals with four days remaining in its Kickstarter
Tomo: Endless Blue has successfully reached three Kickstarter stretch goals, including unlocking new critters with hats and the Corrupted Lands region. With four days remaining in the campaign, the game is nearing its $160,000 funding milestone, though the final community-made Tomo goal at $180,000 remains a challenge.
Life is Strange creator Don't Nod look to be in hot water as a financial report says they'll be out of cash by November
French game developer Don't Nod, known for the Life is Strange series, is reportedly facing a severe cash shortage and may run out of funds by November 2026. Despite releasing five games in three years, recent titles have not performed well enough, and minority stakeholder Tencent is not providing further funding. The company is exploring options including seeking external financing, accelerating a new game's release, or taking on work-for-hire projects.
When is the full Path of Exile 2 release date?
Grinding Gear Games is targeting a 2026 release for the full launch of Path of Exile 2, likely between November 9 and December 31, following ExileCon. While the campaign will be completed with Acts 5 and 6, not all four absent character classes may be ready for the 1.0 launch. The developers are prioritizing a complete campaign and endgame experience.
One lone legend waiting for GTA 6 to launch has decided to make the game from scratch themselves: 'The goal: beat…
An individual named Ziwen is attempting to develop their own version of Grand Theft Auto 6 from scratch using AI agents, aiming to release it before Rockstar Games' official launch. The project is being built using the Godot Engine, with plans to potentially switch to Unity. Ziwen is actively seeking contributors for modeling, coding, level design, and music.
Why Virtual Reality Games Development Is Growing in the Global Gaming Industry - Walkthrough, Tips, Review
The virtual reality gaming market is experiencing significant growth, projected to reach nearly $89 billion by 2031, driven by more accessible hardware and increasing player demand for immersive experiences. Companies like Kevuru Games are highlighted as leading full-cycle VR development studios, offering expertise in platforms such as Meta Quest, HTC Vive, and PlayStation VR, and contributing to major titles and ecosystems.
Upcoming Xbox Exclusives Are Being Sent Out To Die, Analyst Says; Xbox Pushes Back
Analyst Rhys Elliott claims Microsoft is intentionally setting upcoming Xbox exclusives like Gears of War: E-Day and Clockwork Revolution up for failure to transition away from console hardware. Xbox's Matthew Ball denies rumors of reversing course on exclusives, stating they will remain exclusive and that Microsoft plans to release signature exclusives annually. The article also touches on potential studio closures and layoffs within Xbox due to financial struggles.
Microsoft nearly killed former Uncharted 4 and The Last of Us director's new game, but he managed to save it after the first trailer, fellow Naughty Dog vet says: "It was game over"
Bruce Straley's new game, Coven of the Chicken Foot, developed by his studio Wildflower Interactive, faced cancellation when Microsoft abruptly pulled its funding in July 2025. However, a trailer released during The Game Awards attracted new investors, saving the project. This incident highlights the volatile nature of game development funding, even for experienced creators like Straley, who previously co-directed The Last of Us and Uncharted 4.
New TIGA Board reinforces commitment to championing the UK games industry
TIGA, the UK video games industry's trade association, has appointed new members to its Board of Directors, including Gemma Brown, Ben Gunstone, Dan Hett, Greg Howson, Marco A. Minoli, Stuart Muckley, Tim Repa-Davies, Sitara Shefta, and John Tearle. These appointments aim to strengthen TIGA's advocacy for games businesses across the country, focusing on growth, skills development, and policy initiatives. The new board members bring diverse expertise from various studios and specialisms within the UK games sector.
Stars Reach’s alpha updates with fog, underwater effects, and proper chat bubbles
Playable Worlds has released an alpha update for the upcoming MMO Stars Reach, focusing on stability improvements and visual enhancements. The patch introduces new fog and underwater rendering effects, along with updated chat bubbles and an improved skill UI. The game is slated for early access release this summer.
Treyarch studio head steps down after 22 years
Mark Gordon, studio head at Treyarch, has retired after 22 years with the Call of Duty maker. During his tenure, Gordon contributed to titles like Call of Duty 3 and the entire Black Ops series. Kevin Hendrickson and Yale Miller will take over as co-studio heads. The article also touches on past studio issues, significant investment in the Call of Duty franchise, and recent performance concerns.
In a week of Xbox leadership changes, longtime Treyarch boss Mark Gordon is retiring from the Call of Duty studio to "focus on his next chapter"
Mark Gordon, studio head at Treyarch for 22 years, is retiring from the Call of Duty developer. Gordon was instrumental in the development of titles like Call of Duty: World at War and the Black Ops series. Treyarch veterans Kevin Hendrickson and Yale Miller will take over as co-studio heads following his departure.
GTA 6 Release Date Confirmed Again By CEO Who Also Explains Why It’s Taking So Long
Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick confirmed that Grand Theft Auto 6 is still on track for its November 19 release date. He explained that the extended development time is due to Rockstar Games' ambition to create an unprecedented experience. Zelnick also shared insights on business integrity and career advice.
Microsoft-owned studios negotiate to avoid closures as CEO wants *more* monetization in games
Microsoft-owned studios are reportedly negotiating for independence to avoid potential closures amidst an Xbox 'reset.' CEO Satya Nadella is pushing for increased monetization in games, stating that Xbox has historically subsidized its entertainment. This comes as Microsoft faces layoffs and questions about the profitability of its recent Activision Blizzard acquisition.
XSOLLA TO CO-HOST GAMESBEAT ENGAGE CHICAGO. CURATING DEBATE ON THE FUTURE OF USER-GENERATED CONTENT IN GAMES
Xsolla is co-hosting GamesBeat Engage Chicago 2026, an event focused on the future of user-generated content (UGC) in gaming. The event will feature debates and discussions on how UGC platforms are reshaping the industry and fostering a new generation of game developers. Xsolla's Chief Marketing & Growth Officer, Berkley Egenes, highlighted the growing importance of UGC as a commercial force.
What the heck are you playing at, games industry?
The article criticizes the recent surge in video game studio closures and layoffs, highlighting numerous studios shut down by major publishers like Ubisoft, EA, Embracer, Sony, and Microsoft. It questions the business strategies of these publishers, particularly Microsoft's handling of Ninja Theory and the high development cost of Xbox exclusives like Gears of War E-Day, while also pointing to the industry's pursuit of live services and infinite growth over sustainable development.
More than a thousand games in Steam Next Fest feature a generative AI disclosure of some kind
Approximately 20 percent of the games featured in the Steam Next Fest event have disclosed the use of generative AI in their development. Valve requires developers to declare AI usage, a policy that has led to clarifications from companies like Sega regarding their use of the technology. Generative AI remains a controversial topic within the gaming community.
Rumour: Gaming Industry 'Bloodbath' Imminent, as Sony, Microsoft, and More Brace for Mass Layoffs
A report suggests that the gaming industry is facing imminent mass layoffs, with major publishers like Sony and Microsoft potentially cutting entire studios. French journalist Sylvain Trinel indicated that the current situation at Xbox is just the beginning of a larger 'bloodbath' for studios, also highlighting concerns for companies like Don't Nod, Quantic Dream, id Software, Bethesda, and BioWare. Speculation also points to potential issues for PlayStation studios such as Media Molecule and Bend Studio.
