Link: Half of developers think gen AI is bad for the gaming industry

Generative AI is increasingly viewed negatively by game developers, according to a new survey by the Game Developers Conference (GDC). A significant 52% of industry professionals perceive its impact as negative—a stark rise from 18% in 2024.

The survey involved 2,300 industry professionals who are primarily male (64%), white (67%), and based in the U.S. (54%). GDC acknowledges the need for a more diverse representation to reflect the global community accurately.

Despite leadership praise from major gaming companies, only 36% of developers currently incorporate generative AI into their work. Those who do utilize it, mainly use it for research, brainstorming, and administrative tasks, with fewer applying it directly to game development.

The industry also faces significant instability, with persistent layoffs and studio closures affecting morale. Nearly one-fourth of the respondents worry about future layoffs, reflecting an aura of uncertainty within the sector.

For those in educational roles, the outlook is grim, with many believing the unstable state of the industry will challenge students' job prospects. An educator expressed concern that many of their students might not secure a career in game development.

GDC is set to address these critical issues when it convenes this March in San Francisco, signaling a pivotal discussion for the future of game development.

 #

--

Yoooo, this is a quick note on a link that made me go, WTF? Find all past links here.