A recent survey from the Game Developers Conference (GDC) reveals a sharp increase in developer pessimism regarding generative AI’s impact on gaming. More than half (52%) now view gen AI as detrimental to the industry, a stark contrast to just 7% who see it positively. This negative sentiment has surged dramatically: from 18% in 2024 to 30% in 2025, and now surpassing 50%.
The Rising Skepticism Around AI
The GDC survey, conducted among 2,300 game industry professionals, highlights a growing divide between corporate promotion of AI and the experiences of those building games. While major publishers emphasize the benefits of gen AI, developers are increasingly skeptical.
The survey’s demographics—primarily male (64%), white (67%), and U.S.-based (54%)—do not fully represent the global game development community, as GDC itself acknowledges. Despite this, the findings offer critical insight into how working developers perceive this technology.
Currently, 36% of developers utilize gen AI in their roles, mainly for research, brainstorming (81%), and administrative tasks like email (47%). A smaller portion admits to using it for prototyping (35%), debugging (22%), or asset generation (19%). Only 5% apply gen AI to features directly experienced by players, suggesting caution or limited practical integration.
Layoffs and Industry Instability
Alongside AI concerns, the survey reveals a persistent wave of layoffs and studio closures. 17% of respondents reported being laid off in the last year, with 28% having experienced job losses within the past two years. This instability fuels uncertainty: 23% anticipate further layoffs in the next year, while 30% remain unsure.
“Most of my students will not have a career in game development.” – Anonymous Educator, Michigan
The survey also polled educators and students, who share this bleak outlook. 60% believe industry conditions will hinder new graduates’ job prospects. This reflects a growing perception that the gaming industry is becoming increasingly difficult to break into, even with formal training.
Why This Matters
These results underscore a fundamental tension: while some corporate leaders champion AI as a productivity tool, many developers see it as another force destabilizing an already precarious industry. The rapid shift towards AI, coupled with ongoing layoffs, raises questions about the future of work in game development. Will AI tools exacerbate job insecurity, or will they genuinely improve working conditions? The current sentiment suggests that, for many, the answer is leaning toward the former.
The growing negative outlook among developers is a crucial warning sign. Ignoring this sentiment risks further alienation and decreased innovation as those with the skills and experience leave the industry for more stable opportunities. The survey underscores the need for a more transparent and inclusive discussion about AI’s role in gaming, one that prioritizes the well-being of developers alongside corporate profits.
