// The rate of improvement in Generative AI in the past year is incredible. How might the video game development industry change as a result of ever increasing AI capabilities?
"Welcome to the 2039 Game Developers Conference! Today kicks off 5 days of presentations, schmoozing, parties, and more than a few morning hangovers... As today is Monday, it is the start of two days of focused tracks on various topics, from game prototyping to business development to the latest in platform development. Since you are here, you've decided that the gAI track is for you.
"In the past decade, we've seen the average size of game dev teams drop precipitously. Contracting firms that assist with art, animation, testing, and programming have dropped in size as well. “Grand Theft Auto 13” was built by a team of 25 over two years. A team of 21 built and shipped “Hell Divers 6: Return to Super Earth”.
"So welcome to two days of talking about how generative AI systems can help you accelerate the development of your game. Quick show of hands for who is building a game by themselves?
<vast majority of the room raises their hands>
"That's about what I thought. 92% of the games published last year on Steam list fewer than 5 team members. Which is part of the reason we insist on having these sessions in person. While building a game can be done alone, humans are social creatures. So in addition to showing off tools and game development techniques, we are also going to talk about how to build the relationships and support network with other developers that are crucial for keeping your creative juices flowing. Yes, there are a plenty of chatbots and companion-bots out there who will listen to you, encourage you, and some that will push you to be better, but we believe that relationships with other humans are a critical part of the creative process.
"Plus it means we can keep selling these expensive tickets for an in-person event! <a soft chuckle rolls through the crowd> "Alright, let's get started. Turn your ocular implants to shared workspace Red 5...