AI-generated content in games is sparking debate as Epic Games and Dragon Quest creator embrace the technology.
The role of AI in game development is under the spotlight with recent announcements from both Epic Games and Yuji Horii, the creator of the Dragon Quest series. According to a report by Kotaku, Epic Games is moving towards an ‘AI-first’ approach in a delayed shooter that includes Marvel and Star Wars characters, causing quite a stir among developers. Highlights indicate that even artwork for the game will be AI-generated, highlighting the company’s commitment to integrating AI deeply into their production process.
Similarly, Polygon reports that Yuji Horii has released a new browser-based game created using AI tools which significantly reduced its development time. Horii praised AI for its efficiency, but the move has faced backlash, reflecting the ongoing debate in the industry about the creative value and implications of AI-generated content.
In other news related to console gaming, a new breakthrough has been achieved in emulating older game hardware. A coder known as Swordpdf has demonstrated the ability to run physical PS3 game discs on jailbroken PS5s, as reported by Kotaku. This development comes just days after the release of the PS5SX2 emulator, highlighting ongoing efforts within the community to push the PlayStation hardware beyond its intended capabilities.
The gaming scene is also seeing notable game content updates, such as the rework of Overwatch character Sombra into a support role. According to GamesHub, the update in Overwatch Season 5 allows Sombra to heal allies while maintaining her aggressive combat style, a change that could impact team dynamics significantly in the meta.
Meanwhile, a rough map for what might be Pokémon’s upcoming Gen 10, tentatively dubbed ‘Winds and Waves’, is circulating online. However, no official confirmation has been provided by Nintendo, Game Freak, or The Pokémon Company, keeping fans speculating about what the new generation might entail, as reported by GamesHub.
Finally, Law & Order Toronto: Criminal Intent has brought video game culture into mainstream media, albeit with a dubious portrayal. As Destructoid notes, the show referenced characters from the indie animated series The Amazing Digital Circus during a criminal investigation storyline. This highlights how gaming and indie animations continue to influence broader entertainment narratives.
