More game developers are starting to use generative AI
TL;DR
A photo from the GDC Festival of Gaming 2026 event. More video game developers are using generative AI tools in their jobs compared to last year, according to the GDC Festival of Gaming's latest annual industry survey. Forty percent of developers surveyed say they use it "as part of their job," an increase from 36 percent in 2025. Usage was higher with game developers that work on free-to-play games at 58 percent and mobile-only studio workers at 70 percent.
Nauti's Take
For small studios, the percentage alone is no reason to wire generative AI into the workflow. Start with one concrete task, such as prototyping or internal documentation, and measure time saved, rework, and rights or quality risks separately.
The survey shows adoption, not yet a productive advantage.
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