AI is problematic for experienced game developers, according to a new report.
The topic of AI in gaming is a persistent hot-button issue. As new technology continues to expand, major forces in the industry believe it is the industry’s future. Alternatively, player backlash is strong against games that use AI in development. Even major companies like Sega have faced backlash after it was revealed that AI was used in the development of the forthcoming Crazy Taxi game.
Steam Players May Be Rejecting AI-Assisted Games, Study Suggests
Now, a new report suggests there’s actual data to back up the claim that the use of AI in game development leads to a decline in sales.
A new report from the Game Oracle finds that AI decreases game reviews by approximately 53%. Furthermore, AI usage also affects the number of wishlists a game gets on Steam.
“If ‘good’ studios are using AI, then AI use is catastrophic (-40% to -60% drop in sales)… Overall, our data suggests that for low-quality games, AI makes no difference. But for high-potential games, the “AI Stigma” is real and severely punishes developers who otherwise would have succeeded, it’s stated.
Still, the report concludes that AI should not be avoided in game development as it is a tool. However, it’s not a replacement for hard work and should be approached with caution by those developers who choose to use it.
Recently, the CEO of Epic Games came out against Valve’s mandatory AI disclosure on Steam. He argued that developers have to choose between being marked with the “Scarlet Letter” of AI or longer development times.
How do you feel about the use of AI in game development? Sound off about this story and all others in our official Discord server.
For more, check out PlayStation’s comments on AI in future development. Also, don’t forget to sign up for our weekly newsletter.
Comments