Gamers have been waiting more than a decade for the release of Grand Theft Auto 6 — one of the most anticipated games of all time. But according to industry experts, artificial intelligence (AI) could soon change how quickly major games like GTA 6 are developed and released.
AI Is Arriving at the Perfect Time for the Gaming Industry
Google Cloud’s Global Director for Games, Jack Buser, recently said AI has arrived at a crucial time for the gaming industry. Speaking on the Strictly Business podcast, he explained that AI tools can help developers build new games faster and with more creativity.
“We’re just very fortunate that AI has arrived when the games industry really needs it,” said Buser.
After the pandemic and a wave of layoffs, many studios have been struggling to maintain production levels. Yet, a recent Boston Consulting Group report predicts the gaming industry will reach $266 billion in revenue by 2028, with AI adoption playing a major role in this growth. Major publishers like Ubisoft and King are already using AI to streamline their workflows.
AI Can Shorten Game Development Time
Buser highlighted one of AI’s biggest benefits: reducing the time from concept to release. Large games like GTA 6 often take years — even a decade — to develop. The long “iteration time” between ideas and implementation has always slowed developers down.
“With AI, you can get your ideas into the game much more quickly,” Buser explained. “You’re able to accelerate that iteration loop.”
AI can automate repetitive tasks, generate assets faster, and assist with debugging — all of which can significantly speed up production cycles.
Smarter NPCs: AI’s Impact on Gameplay
Beyond development speed, AI could also transform the way players experience games. Buser pointed to the evolution of NPCs (non-player characters) as one of the most exciting possibilities.
Traditionally, NPCs rely on preset dialogue and limited responses. Players can only choose from a few scripted options. But with generative AI, that could change dramatically.
“With AI, you can make conversations in natural language,” Buser said. “NPCs can stay in character and engage in ongoing, realistic dialogue — as if they were human.”
This means future games might feature intelligent, adaptive NPCs capable of reacting dynamically to players’ actions and emotions — offering truly immersive experiences that were once impossible.
AI and the Future of Gaming
AI isn’t just a temporary trend — it’s reshaping how games are created, tested, and experienced. As tools improve, developers may release large-scale games like Grand Theft Auto 6 faster, with richer storytelling and smarter gameplay mechanics.
The future of gaming is AI-driven, faster, and more immersive than ever before.
Source: Business Insider
