Study Finds Majority Of Game Dev Companies Use Generative AI Already Despite Worker Concerns

by

The findings from the 13th yearly State of the Game Industry Survey are now available, shedding insight into developers’ opinions on various controversial industry matters, such as generative AI.

Approximately 52% of the developers surveyed work for companies that employ generative AI, and around 36% personally utilize such tools in game development. However, a significant portion (30%) of these developers feel that generative AI is having a detrimental effect on the video game industry – this negative perception has increased by 12% compared to 2023 surveys. The reasons given for their concerns include issues like intellectual property theft, high energy consumption, and potential biases in AI programs.

The study revealed that Business and Finance positions were most likely to utilize AI tools (51%), with Production roles and Team Leadership positions coming in second (41%). Positions within Community, Marketing, and Public Relations also showed a high usage rate (49%). Additionally, the survey indicated that 28% of developers aged 18-34 employed AI technologies at work, while this number rose to 47% among video game developers over the age of 55.

The use of AI in video games, and beyond, has sparked debates, particularly because of worries about job displacement. According to Electronic Arts CEO Andrew Wilson, while there may be temporary job losses with the increased usage of AI, it is expected that this technological advancement will eventually generate more employment opportunities overall – similar to what occurred during past labor transformations. Meanwhile, video game actors continue their strike, partially due to apprehensions about the integration of AI.

According to a recent survey outside the AI field, men comprise about two-thirds (66%) of the video game industry workforce, marking a decrease from three-quarters (75%) in 2020. In contrast, women and non-binary individuals represent an increasing percentage, now accounting for approximately one-third (32%), up from 29% and 24% in previous years. The study also found that around a quarter (24%) of respondents identified as LGBTQ+, while white or Caucasian developers made up nearly six out of ten (59%) of the entire game developer pool.

The research additionally explored the topic of job cuts within the industry, revealing that a significant portion (30%) expressed no worry whatsoever about potential future layoffs. The researchers speculated that this unexpected finding could be connected to the high number of “Not Applicable” replies received from developers who might have already experienced job losses. Job losses in the gaming sector were widespread in 2024 and have persisted throughout 2025.

(or)

The research delved into the subject of layoffs within the industry, uncovering that a substantial group (30%) expressed no concern at all about future job cuts. The researchers suggested that this surprising statistic could be linked to the high number of “Not Relevant” responses received from developers who may have already been let go. Layoffs in the gaming industry peaked in 2024 and have remained a concern in 2025.

(or)

The research further examined job cuts within the sector, showing that approximately one third (30%) expressed no fear whatsoever about future layoffs. The researchers hypothesized that this surprising percentage might be associated with the high number of “Not Applicable” responses received from developers who could have already been laid off. Layoffs in the gaming industry were prevalent in 2024 and have continued to occur in 2025.

The survey revealed that a vast majority, approximately 80%, of developers are creating games for the Personal Computer (PC) at present. The next most preferred platforms were PlayStation 5, with about 38% of developers, followed by Xbox Series X|S with 34%, Android with 29%, and iOS with 28%.

The research additionally focused on live-service games, revealing that a significant majority (around 42%) expressed no interest in developing their next project as a live-service game. In contrast, just 13% showed enthusiasm for this approach. The market for live-service games can be substantial and promising, but it’s also known for being fiercely competitive. Recently, Sony garnered attention by axing two more live-service games, including a God of War title, after conducting a strategic assessment.

The “State of the Game Industry” report was created by gathering over 3,000 feedbacks from game developers in collaboration between the Game Developers Conference and Omdia. The study predominantly features insights from independent and AA studio developers, with AAA developers accounting for just 15% of the responses – a decrease from 18% the previous year.

Read More

2025-01-21 23:09