In 2024, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming increasingly embedded in the gaming industry, with small and large studios alike exploring its potential. A survey conducted by a16z Games sheds light on how AI is being integrated into game development processes, particularly among smaller studios. The survey, which included 651 employees from various game industry companies, offers key insights into the current state of AI adoption, the challenges faced, and the outlook for the future.

AI x Game Dev Survey

AI Adoption Across Game Studios

The survey reveals that 73% of game studios are already using AI in their processes, with 88% planning to adopt the technology in the future. The trend shows that smaller studios, in particular, are embracing AI, with 84% of respondents working in teams of fewer than 20 people. Notably, company founders were the most positive about AI, with 85% reporting its use, while artists were more cautious, with only 58% adopting the technology.

Key Findings from a16z Games Report

Impact on Productivity and Costs

The majority of studios that have integrated AI reported positive outcomes. A significant portion indicated that AI adoption has led to increased productivity and reduced costs. However, the results are not universal. Approximately 16% of respondents did not experience any productivity improvements, while 35% did not see cost reductions, highlighting the variability in outcomes.

Productivity and Costs

Artist Concerns and the Fear of Job Displacement

Despite the widespread interest in AI, concerns about its impact on jobs are prevalent, particularly among artists. 36% of artists believe AI poses a threat to their employment, while 24% of game designers and programmers share similar concerns. On the other hand, company founders expressed the least fear of AI replacing their jobs, with only 15% citing this as a concern. Overall, 67% of the survey participants expressed interest in AI, though there is a notable divide in how different roles view the technology’s potential impact.

Interest and Feedback on AI's Impact 

Challenges in AI Integration

Several challenges remain for game studios integrating AI into their processes. The most significant issue is the quality and accuracy of AI models, which 53% of respondents cited as a key problem. Legal risks, integration difficulties, and team discomfort also present hurdles, though they are less commonly mentioned. The need for consistent and reliable AI models is especially critical as many studios explore real-time applications of AI, such as AI-controlled NPCs, with 53% of respondents investigating this potential.

Biggest Impediment Towards Usage

The Shift Toward Custom AI Models

Another important trend emerging from the survey is the move toward custom AI models. 54% of studios are planning to develop their own AI models, which would help mitigate legal risks and ensure the consistency of the content produced. This shift aligns with a broader push for more control and flexibility in AI applications.

Early-Stage AI Applications

Currently, the use of AI in gaming is still largely in the early stages, with most applications occurring in the pre-production and prototyping phases. AI is actively being used for creating narrative content, music, voice acting, and advertising creatives. One of the most significant areas of growth is in the generation of 3D assets, with 70% of respondents using or planning to use AI for this purpose—up from 48% last year. This growing demand for AI-generated assets reflects the increasing reliance on AI to streamline game development processes.

Percentage of Studios Using AI

Popular AI Tools Among Game Developers

Several AI tools and companies have gained popularity within the gaming community. Among the top tools being used or planned for use by game developers are Claude, Flux, ChatGPT, Cursor, Eleven Labs, GitHub Co-pilot, Meshy, Midjourney, Stable Diffusion, and Suno. These tools cover a range of applications, from asset creation to narrative development, highlighting the diversity of AI’s role in gaming.

Final Thoughts

As AI continues to evolve and become more integrated into game development, its potential to drive productivity and reduce costs remains evident. However, challenges related to model accuracy, legal risks, and job displacement concerns must be addressed. The trend towards custom AI models and real-time applications, such as AI-controlled NPCs, signals a growing commitment to refining AI technologies. As the gaming industry moves forward, the adoption of AI will likely continue to reshape the landscape, with smaller studios playing a significant role in its expansion.

Source: gamedevreports