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

Fortnite developer Epic Games is undergoing a significant shift towards incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) in its video game development process, according to CEO Tim Sweeney. Sweeney announced this pivot on X, stating that the company is reassigning developers to maximize AI acceleration. This move aims to enable Epic's teams to create more and better content using Unreal Engine, the company's game development software widely used by third-party developers.

The announcement follows a heated debate about AI's role in creative sectors and arrives six months after Epic laid off over 1,000 employees, though this decision was attributed to slower growth rather than AI concerns. Sweeney emphasized that adopting AI internally will help Epic survive the AI revolution, support other developers, and deliver faster, improved code and content.

He also dismissed criticism of the company's optimistic stance on AI, expressing confidence in its potential to empower creators. Epic is reportedly delaying a game developed in collaboration with Disney, expected to launch in March, to implement an AI-first approach to development.