Epic Games Reportedly Delays Disney Project to Implement AI-First Production
That’s certainly a choice.
AI-First Shift
Epic Games is increasing its focus on artificial intelligence for game development. Sources indicate that an upcoming release tied to its partnership with Disney has been delayed to shift toward an "AI first" production model. Internal communications reportedly directed teams to eliminate hand-written code and generate all artwork through full AI workflows.
Reports suggest the shift faced mixed reactions among developers. However, Epic has increasingly integrated generative AI tools into its Unreal Engine platform. A company representative stated that the studio is embracing AI-accelerated development led by its creative teams.
Disney Collaboration
Disney previously announced a $1.5 billion investment in Epic Games to build a connected games and entertainment universe. The collaboration includes various projects, though timeline adjustments have affected anticipated release schedules.
Industry Outlook
Developer sentiment around generative AI remains mixed across the gaming industry. While some studios utilize AI tools for auxiliary tasks like programming assistance and research, broader industry surveys indicate ongoing concerns regarding asset creation and business impact.
