Google Study Reveals Nearly 90% Of Game Developers Use AI Agents

Google Cloud published a report on Monday revealing that 87% of video game developers rely on AI agents in their work. Conducted in partnership with consulting firm The Harris Poll, the research took place in June and July and surveyed 615 game developers across multiple countries.

According to the report, the study was designed to understand the changes AI is bringing to the games industry and its impact on developers. The researchers focused on how innovation has been affecting developers—from the United States, Sweden, Finland, Norway, and South Korea—, its impact on their careers, and the new professional and creative opportunities emerging in the market.

“The study confirmed the massive impact of gen AI on game development, with respondents largely agreeing that it is having a positive influence across a wide range of creative efforts, business settings, and internal workflows,” states the document.

The study also reports that “97% of game developers say that gen AI is reshaping the industry,” and that 87% of game developers are using AI agents in their work. Developers are applying these agents in areas such as game coaching, content optimization, and balancing and tuning gameplay.

Over 80% of developers also use AI technology for problem-solving, quality testing, accelerating prototyping, brainstorming, integrating user feedback, and improving interaction.

While researchers found that AI is generally being received positively in the industry, the study also highlights challenges—such as measuring the success of AI implementations, addressing data privacy and ownership, managing costs, and overcoming hesitancy around adoption and job security.

During Microsoft’s recent layoffs, one of the most affected areas was the Xbox division, in which around 650 employees lost their jobs last year. More cuts have since impacted other gaming roles this year.

According to Reuters, many Hollywood video game performers went on strike over AI last year, and around 10,000 industry workers lost their jobs.

However, Google Cloud’s report notes that developers are also witnessing a transformation in the industry, with new roles emerging, such as AI content designers and AI engineers. In fact, 56% of respondents said their existing roles now include AI-related tasks.

“Developers also see promising possibilities with AI agents and other emerging AI tools to accelerate game development and enhance player experiences,” wrote the researchers.