GDC Survey Reveals Developers Insights on Layoffs and Generative AI Usage
In a year dominated by blockbuster video game hits, the gaming industry also witnessed a troubling trend of mass layoffs. A GDC survey, conducted in collaboration with Game Developer and supported by Omdia, sheds light on the impact of these layoffs, the prevalence of generative AI, and developers’ anticipation for the next Nintendo Switch.
Layoffs Plague the Industry
The GDC State of the Industry Survey, encompassing over 3000 game developers, disclosed that one-third of developers were affected by layoffs in 2023, either directly or indirectly. Of those surveyed, 35% reported their companies experienced layoffs, and 7% were laid off themselves. Notably, the quality assurance (QA) sector bore the brunt, with 22% of QA workers facing layoffs. Looking ahead, more than half of developers expressed concerns about potential layoffs in the next 12 months. Additionally, the survey highlighted a rise in support for unionization, with 57% of the answers favoring it compared to 53% in the previous year.
Generative AI Trends
The survey delved into the adoption of generative AI in the industry, revealing that 49% of developers reported its use in their workplaces. However, 23% expressed no interest in the technology. Indie developers showed more enthusiasm for generative AI, with 37% incorporating it into their work, compared to 22% of AAA and AA developers. Interestingly, over half of all developers noted the presence of company policies regarding the use of generative AI, with AAA companies more likely to implement such policies, especially around restrictions. Concerns about the ethics of generative AI were voiced by 84% of developers.
Blockchain Tech Decline
Blockchain technology, which garnered attention in previous years, witnessed a decline in interest. A significant 77% of developers stated their studios had no interest in blockchain tech, while only 2% reported current usage.
Nintendo Switch Successor Anticipation
Amid these challenges, developers expressed keen interest in the rumored Nintendo Switch successor. Approximately 8% of them revealed ongoing projects for a “Nintendo Switch successor,” and 32% found developing for the platform intriguing. Notably, this interest surpassed that for the current Switch, with 25% of developers indicating interest in the existing platform.
As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, these survey insights provide a comprehensive snapshot of the industry’s current concerns, technological inclinations, and future aspirations.