Recent research has unveiled a remarkable surge in the integration of generative AI within games on Steam, showcasing a staggering 681% increase in titles that openly acknowledge this technology. According to data from Totally Human Media, the number of games disclosing the use of generative AI has skyrocketed to over 7,500, a significant leap from just around 1,000 in 2024.
Insights from Industry Experts
Ichiro Lambe, a seasoned game developer and the author of the study, observed that merely a year ago, approximately 1,000 titles on Steam had reported the utilization of generative AI. Driven by the relentless advancement of AI technology, Lambe felt compelled to delve deeper into this phenomenon. His findings reveal that the adoption of generative AI in game development has expanded exponentially over the past year.
The applications of generative AI in gaming are diverse. Developers are increasingly employing AI for various audio elements, which encompass background music, voice-overs, narration, and even character voices through text-to-speech tools. Furthermore, the use of large language models (LLMs) for text and narrative generation suggests that developers are relying on AI to craft everything from item descriptions to intricate story arcs.
- AI in marketing and promotional materials, enhancing game descriptions and promotional imagery on Steam’s storefront.
- Code generation assistance, streamlining the development process.
Interestingly, Lambe pointed out that the use of AI during runtime is becoming more prevalent. This includes live-generated content, which developers are required to disclose. Examples of such applications include:
- Flagging offensive material created by players.
- Generating entire 3D worlds based on player-created prompts.
- Making real-time decisions regarding game mechanics.
While attitudes towards AI in gaming can be polarizing, Lambe’s report indicates a more nuanced perspective. Some games that prominently feature AI in their marketing have received positive reviews, suggesting a growing acceptance among players.
Among the standout titles utilizing generative AI in the past year are My Summer Car, Liar’s Bar, The Quinfall, and Inzoi. Notably, My Summer Car has achieved impressive sales of 2.5 million copies, incorporating AI-generated artwork within its main house, illustrating the varied reliance on AI across different games.
However, Lambe also highlights a cautious approach among developers. There is an observable trend of carefully crafted language in disclosures regarding AI usage, often aimed at reassuring potential customers about its inclusion. This reflects a desire to mitigate any apprehensions users may have about the technology.
As the landscape of AI-assisted gaming continues to evolve, questions linger regarding consumer acceptance of these innovative titles. Additionally, a significant gap in the data remains, raising the possibility that some games may not be disclosing their use of AI at all.