Epic shifts to 'AI-accelerated development' for upcoming Disney game

Epic Games plans to use AI to generate code and art for an unannounced Disney game, which is now delayed from its original March release window, according to Bloomberg. Developers on the project were given an "AI-first" mandate to use tools like Anthropic's Claude more to finish the game. A game director reportedly told staff, "No more hand-written code," and all of the game's art will be "generated with full AI workflows." Epic Games spokesperson Jake Jones said the company is "embracing AI-accelerated development." The upcoming game is reportedly a shooter featuring characters from Marvel and Star Wars, part of a multiyear collaboration between Epic and Disney, which also invested $1.5 billion in Epic in 2024. Epic already uses AI in Fortnite, which has previously featured Disney characters like an AI Darth Vader. AI game development tools have been popping up from other large companies like Meta and Google, so Epic isn't alone here. Epic CEO Tim Sweeney has also pushed for Steam to drop its "made with AI" tag, arguing that "AI will be involved in nearly all future production." Earlier this year, Epic laid off over 1,000 of its employees, following a "downturn" in engagement on Fortnite since 2025.

(Source：The Verge)