AI: Enhancing Game Development, Not Just Shortening It

The integration of AI, particularly generative AI, in game development sparks considerable debate. While many gamers and developers express concerns about its implementation, others view it as a groundbreaking advancement in the industry. A recent panel at GamesBeat Next, moderated by Jon Radoff of Beamable, focused specifically on the role of generative AI in shaping the future of game development.

Radoff kicked off the discussion by highlighting the numerous benefits of generative AI beyond merely speeding up the creation process. Kylan Gibbs, Chief Product Officer at Inworld AI, explained, “AI is generally applied in two areas: design time and run time. While there are clear advantages in design time, our focus at Inworld AI is on run time. Enhancements in game mechanics and player experience will drive revenue and engagement, more so than cost-cutting improvements in design time.”

Stefano Corazza, head of Roblox Studio, emphasized how AI can enhance creativity in game design: “After establishing a game's geometries, textures, and shaders, developers are often confined to that visual style. Generative AI changes this by allowing you to experiment with ten different visual styles in under an hour. Soon, you will be able to reskin an entire game in mere seconds by altering a single prompt, opening the door to unparalleled creative experimentation.”

Generative AI as a Catalyst for Creativity

Negar Shaghahi, CEO of Auxuman, shared insights about users on the Auxworld platform, which leverages generative AI for single-player game creation. “Most gamers prefer playing over creating, and about 10% of our platform users are streamers wishing to engage with their communities. When players participate in the game, they feel a sense of control and impact, which enhances their overall engagement.”

Gibbs noted a shift towards empowering players with more decision-making opportunities. “Creators and studios need to define the world and core narrative, but players should shape their own experiences within that framework. This evolution means that individuals will enjoy a wider array of experiences, ultimately expanding the streamer ecosystem as generative AI creates more possibilities.”

Shaghahi concluded, “The essence of game-as-art will persist. However, the rise of AI simplifies game creation, thus reducing the risks associated with niche content. This shift minimizes the exclusivity around content creation, allowing cultural influences to permeate games more rapidly—not just within social contexts but across the gaming landscape.”