Fortnite-maker Epic Games makes 'huge pivot' with AI, CEO says

San Francisco-based gaming company Epic Games is undergoing a significant shift to incorporate artificial intelligence (AI) into their video game development process, according to CEO Tim Sweeney. The American gaming giant is reorganizing its teams to leverage AI, aiming to enable all employees to create more and better content using Unreal Engine, their game development software.

This move comes amidst ongoing discussions about AI's influence in creative fields. The announcement follows Epic's announcement of laying off over 1,000 employees about six months ago, though the company attributed this decision to broader issues like slower growth rather than AI. By increasing internal use of AI, Epic aims to strengthen its position in the industry, help other developers do the same, and produce better code and content faster.

CEO Sweeney also addressed criticism, stating that their role is to design tools for both the present and future, and expressing optimism about AI's potential to empower creators. Epic is reportedly delaying the release of a game developed in collaboration with Disney, expected for March and featuring characters from Marvel and Star Wars, due to their adoption of an "AI first" approach to development.