A Google Cloud survey has found that 87% of videogame developers are using artificial intelligence (AI) agents to automate tasks, as studios seek to cut costs and speed up production following widespread layoffs across the industry.
The report, published on Monday and conducted with The Harris Poll, surveyed 615 developers in the United States, South Korea, Norway, Finland, and Sweden between late June and early July. Most respondents said AI was helping reduce repetitive work, allowing them to focus more on creative development.
According to the study, 44% of developers use AI agents to process and optimize content such as text, voice, code, audio, and video, while also providing decision-making autonomy. The survey showed that 94% of developers expect AI to lower overall development costs in the long term, though one in four said it remained difficult to measure the return on investment, and high integration costs continue to pose challenges.
The study also highlighted industry-wide concerns. Around 63% of respondents expressed unease over data ownership and licensing issues tied to AI-generated content. Developers have also voiced worries over potential job losses, intellectual property disputes, and reduced wages.
The videogame sector has seen more than 10,000 job losses over the past year, with studios closing and Hollywood’s game performers going on strike in 2023 over AI and pay disputes. Despite these challenges, analysts expect the industry to gain momentum with new premium titles and console launches expected to lift spending in 2024 and 2025.