Efficiency vs Creativity: The Line Developers Can’t Cross

[nihalsari]

This clarification comes amid growing sensitivity around generative AI in games. Only days earlier, Larian Studios faced backlash after acknowledging limited AI use during early development of titles like Baldur's Gate 3. CEO Swen Vincke later said the studio would refrain from using generative AI tools following community criticism.

Valve’s stance suggests that AI is acceptable when invisible to players but controversial when it directly shapes creative output. As “efficiency gains” become a common justification in 2026, developers will likely face increasing pressure to justify where—and why—AI fits into their pipelines.

[madmax]

devs are gonna say “efficiency” a lot in 2026, whether it’s true or not