Recent reports suggest both PlayStation and Xbox are gradually incorporating generative artificial intelligence into their game development workflows, despite controversy surrounding its use. The data also shows that the use of generative artificial intelligence in game development is growing rapidly, although major players such as PlayStation and Xbox have been cautious about its open adoption.
According to a recent analysis, one in five games on Steam now uses generative artificial intelligence. This isn't particularly surprising, as Valve's storefront is one of the biggest platforms for indie titles. Indie developers also face less pressure than major video game companies when it comes to using AI. Still, two of the biggest names in the industry seem to be planning to embrace the technology for game development despite the lingering stigma surrounding it.
PlayStation is looking for an AI artist, while Xbox is reportedly using generative AI in a major franchise
A report from The Game Post suggests that a newly formed first-party PlayStation studio called Dark Outlaw Games is looking to hire a concept artist with experience with generative AI tools like Midjourney and ChatGPT. Meanwhile, insiders claim that Xbox has already begun integrating similar AI tools into Halo Studios' workflow, reportedly using them to build worlds and refine various aspects of the upcoming Halo art on installments. This move towards generative AI comes at a time when many gamers remain skeptical of the technology, believing it could lead to lower quality content in AAA games.
Previously, several major video game companies, including Take-Two, CDPR, and EA, expressed concerns about using generative AI tools, mainly due to concerns about fan backlash. However, Nintendo has taken a firm stance against the technology, with Shigeru Miyamoto confirming that the company has no plans to use AI. Meanwhile, many developers described the tools as “useful”, with some admitting they were hard to resist. For example, a key Battlefield 6 leader recently called generative AI a “seduction” tool, though they clarified that their team didn't use it to create any part of the game's art or assets.
It's worth noting that unlike PlayStation's Dark Outlaw Games, who are openly looking for AI experts, Xbox has not confirmed the use of AI in game development at Halo Studios. With its parent company Microsoft planning to invest billions in AI-based tools and technologies, it seems likely that first-party Xbox studios will soon adopt them to reduce costs or improve development efficiency. It remains uncertain how players will react to these changes and whether the growing presence of AI-generated art in games will hurt or help the industry.
Source: The Game Post
