Epic Games delays its upcoming Disney extraction shooter, mandating an AI-first production model for developers.
Epic Games has reportedly delayed an upcoming Disney collaboration while instructing developers to rely more heavily on artificial intelligence to complete the project. The game features characters from Marvel and Star Wars and was originally scheduled to launch in March, but the release has now been pushed back.
According to reports from Bloomberg, the company is implementing significant structural changes to how the title is developed by introducing an AI-focused production process. The decision comes as part of a broader partnership following a 1.5 billion dollar investment from Disney in early 2024.
Development on the high-profile shooter progressed more slowly than anticipated because management underestimated the required time and workforce. Industry insights regarding the production shift emerged according to information published by dexerto.
Epic Games Adopts AI-First Production Model For Developers
Developers working on the upcoming extraction shooter were instructed to follow an AI-first production model, utilizing tools such as Anthropic's Claude to generate code and artwork. Human developers will now oversee and guide AI output rather than creating everything from scratch.
In an internal message reviewed by Bloomberg, a game director stated that there would be no more hand-written code on the project. Furthermore, the director confirmed that all artwork for the upcoming title would be generated with full artificial intelligence workflows.
Tim Sweeney Defends AI Push Amid Industry Backlash
Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney defended the company strategy on social media, explaining that the objective is to help employees build more content rather than downsize the workforce. Sweeney noted that a massive pivot is underway to retool teams for maximum AI acceleration.
The executive faced immediate criticism from developers online, with industry voices questioning the timing of the transition. Sweeney responded by arguing that the gaming industry must embrace technological changes rather than attempt to return to past development standards.
Previous Fortnite AI Controversies And Corporate Restructuring
The latest directive follows a challenging period of corporate restructuring at Epic Games, which included cutting one thousand jobs in March due to slower sales for Fortnite. Management previously faced backlash over generative AI usage inside Fortnite in June 2026.
During that incident, the company shared a video demonstrating concept art generated via artificial intelligence for cosmetic skins. The demonstration prompted players to demand clear disclaimers on all cosmetics developed utilizing automated technology.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Epic Games delay the Marvel and Star Wars shooter?
Epic Games delayed the game because development progressed more slowly than anticipated, with management underestimating the time and staff required to complete the project.
What does the Epic Games AI-first production model involve?
The new model instructs developers to use tools like Anthropic's Claude to generate code and artwork, with human staff overseeing and guiding the final output.
How has Epic Games leadership responded to developer criticism?
CEO Tim Sweeney defended the push toward artificial intelligence on social media, stating that the goal is to empower creators to build more content rather than reduce headcount.
