Generative AI
Ongoing coverage on Generative AI.
Latest coverage
GameMaker incorporates Claude Code to enable AI-assisted workflows
GameMaker has launched a new runtime and command line toolchain (GM-CLI) that integrates Anthropic's Claude Code. This allows developers to use natural language prompts for tasks like querying project structures, debugging, and managing build configurations, facilitating AI-assisted workflows. GameMaker owner Opera emphasizes that these AI tools are complementary and opt-in for users.
"The thematics of Bond are often: beware of utopia" - 007: First Light art director says developer IO Interactive hasn't used any generative AI to make it
IO Interactive's art director Rasmus Poulsen stated that the developer has not used generative AI in the creation of the upcoming James Bond game, 007: First Light. This stance aligns with other developers like Rebel Wolves, who have also confirmed no generative AI use. The discussion touches on the broader industry debate surrounding AI's role in game development and its potential impact on employment.
"The thematics of Bond are often: beware of utopia" - 007: First Light art director says developer IO Interactive hasn't used any generative AI to make it
IO Interactive's art director Rasmus Poulsen confirmed that the upcoming James Bond game, 007: First Light, is not using generative AI in its development. This stance aligns with other developers like Rebel Wolves, who have also stated their games are not created with generative AI. The discussion highlights the ongoing debate surrounding AI's role in game creation, with some advocating for its use as a tool to assist developers rather than replace them.
Facepunch Studios issues response to AI slop in its new game S&box
Facepunch Studios has responded to user criticism regarding the use of generative AI in its new game, S&box. The game, developed by the creators of Garry's Mod, has faced mixed reviews on Steam, with players expressing concerns about the AI implementation.
As Garry's Mod successor quickly becomes overrun with gen-AI after launching on Steam, Garry himself commits to "taking action to promote human creativity"
Garry Newman, creator of Garry's Mod and founder of Facepunch Studios, has stated that the company does not encourage the use of generative AI in their new game development tool, S&box. The game, which recently launched on Steam, has seen a rapid influx of AI-generated content, leading to mixed reviews and calls from players to filter out such submissions. Newman emphasized a commitment to promoting human creativity amidst concerns about AI's growing presence in creative outlets.
Witcher 3 Director Says Studios Should Embrace GenAI, But Not To Replace People
The Witcher 3 game director Konrad Tomaszkiewicz stated that game studios should embrace generative AI to assist developers, not replace them. His studio, Rebel Wolves, used AI for early voice work in The Blood of Dawnwalker but confirmed no AI-generated assets will be in the final game. The discussion also touched on the controversial use of AI in other titles like Crimson Desert and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33.
GitHub Copilot is pivoting to usage-based billing after becoming unsustainable
GitHub Copilot is transitioning to a usage-based billing model starting June 1, 2026, as the current premium request model is no longer sustainable due to escalating inference costs. The new system will align pricing with actual usage, incorporating a monthly allotment of AI Credits with options to purchase more, calculated based on token consumption.
"This isn’t just something that affects Wizards of the Coast" - Magic: the Gathering Arena team vote to unionise for protection against layoffs, genAI and forced crunch
Developers of Magic: The Gathering Arena at Wizards of the Coast are organizing to unionize with the Communications Workers of America (CWA). The union aims to secure better protections against layoffs, address generative AI usage, and prevent mandatory crunch. This move follows similar unionization efforts in the gaming industry and aims to give workers more say in workplace conditions and equity.
Magic: The Gathering Arena devs are unionizing to deliver genAI and layoff protections
Developers of Magic: The Gathering Arena at Wizards of the Coast are seeking to unionize under the Communications Workers of America. The group, calling themselves United Wizards of the Coast—CWA, has requested voluntary recognition from Wizards of the Coast and its parent company Hasbro. They are seeking protections regarding layoffs, remote work, workloads, career pathways, and the use of generative AI tools.
Microsoft will reportedly invite 7% of their US workers to retire early, as the Xbox division talk up "strong cost discipline"
Microsoft is reportedly offering a voluntary early retirement program to approximately 7% of its US-based employees, targeting those at senior director level and below whose age and years of service total 70 or more. This initiative, aimed at achieving 'strong cost discipline' within the Xbox division and the wider company, follows previous rounds of layoffs. Executive VP Amy Coleman stated the program offers eligible employees a choice for their next step with company support.
Big Tech openly wants to manipulate us with AI. That seems bad to me
This opinion piece argues that the tech industry's push for generative AI, particularly for hyperpersonalization in gaming, is manipulative and ethically questionable. It criticizes the use of AI to predict player churn and adjust gameplay or offers in real-time to increase spending, comparing it to creating 'psychological prisons.' The author contrasts this with developers who prioritize enriching players' lives through game creation, even if it means less profit.
Mass Effect spiritual successor The Expanse: Osiris Reborn launches closed beta
The Expanse: Osiris Reborn, a spiritual successor to Mass Effect from developer Owlcat Games, has launched its closed beta. Access is currently limited to players who purchase the 'Miller's Pack' for $80 USD or higher editions. The beta features the game's second mission, offering a glimpse into combat and player choice, with the full release planned for 2027.
The makers of Playdate, the console-with-a-crank, will no longer accept games created with generative AI
Panic Inc, the creators of the Playdate handheld console, have announced that games utilizing generative AI for art, audio, music, text, or dialogue will no longer be accepted on the Playdate Catalog store. This policy change aims to address concerns surrounding the use of AI in game development, though custom-written AI functions within games are still permitted. Existing titles that used AI will remain but will be flagged.
Instantale, an LLM-Driven RPG Where Everything Is Dynamically Generated
Indie developer Daruma to Akabeko announced that Instantale, an LLM-driven roguelike RPG, will be released on the Epic Games Store in Summer 2026. The game features dynamically generated worlds, characters, and events powered by generative AI, offering a unique experience for each player. Previously, the game faced distribution issues on Steam due to its use of live AI.
Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick Says "Woe Is Me" AI Narrative Is Overstated
Take-Two Interactive CEO Strauss Zelnick believes the negative narrative surrounding generative AI in the gaming industry is overstated, suggesting it will ultimately benefit humanity and enhance creative work. While acknowledging potential risks, Zelnick argues that AI will boost productivity and employment, rather than replace artists, citing the need for human creativity to generate new content. His comments come as Take-Two prepares for the highly anticipated release of Grand Theft Auto 6.
Two weeks after laying off AI team, GTA 6 boss says we must embrace the technology
Take-Two Interactive CEO Strauss Zelnick has expressed a shifting stance on artificial intelligence, recently stating that new AI tools are exciting for the company's business, despite previously laying off its AI team. While Zelnick claims generative AI has played "zero part" in Grand Theft Auto 6's creation, he believes the technology will ultimately be beneficial for the industry by automating mundane tasks.
Take-Two CEO says if AI replaces anyone, it should be Elon Musk after his claim GTA 6 could come from gen-AI before Rockstar: "The richest guy on Earth, wouldn't that be job number one for AI to take?"
Take-Two Interactive CEO Strauss Zelnick responded to Elon Musk's claims about generative AI creating Grand Theft Auto 6 before Rockstar Games. Zelnick suggested that if AI were to replace anyone's job, it should be Musk's, questioning why the billionaire is still busy if AI is so capable. He also stated that AI can assist in game development but is not revolutionizing or replacing the intense work required for titles like Grand Theft Auto 6.
The games industry will never "get back to normal", lament Tony Hawk devs Iron Galaxy, as they make another round of layoffs
Iron Galaxy, the developers behind Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3+4 and ports of various games, has announced another round of layoffs, citing permanent changes in the video game industry's market conditions. The company stated it can no longer sustain its previous team size following a previous downsizing. This news comes amidst broader industry trends of job cuts and shifts in publisher investment criteria, with generative AI and live service games being discussed as potential factors.
XCOM spiritual successor Warhounds dumps its gen-AI portraits, and I'm breathing a sigh of relief
Developer Everplay has announced that its upcoming turn-based strategy game Warhounds will be moving away from generative AI-generated character portraits. Following community feedback, the team will replace the AI portraits with over 100 hand-made ones created directly from the game's 3D character models. The game, inspired by XCOM and Jagged Alliance, is planned for a 2026 launch and will feature tactical combat and squad specialization.
Panic says the Playdate Catalog won't accept games made with generative AI
Panic, the company behind the Playdate console, announced that its game catalog will no longer accept titles that use generative AI for art, audio, music, text, or dialogue starting this month. While AI assistance for coding is permitted and will be disclosed, the use of large language models and AI image/audio generators for creative assets is prohibited. Previously approved games using generative AI will remain with a disclosure.