While the use of generative artificial intelligence continues to spark heated debate across the video game industry, the data tells a far more pragmatic story. A new analysis from Totally Human Media shows rapid growth in AI-powered games, with several already generating revenues in the millions.
The industry is increasingly focused on shielding itself from the potential downsides of generative artificial intelligence. A number of studios, including Larian Studios and CD Projekt, have publicly defended its use, particularly during the early stages of development. At the same time, many creators and players remain opposed to its implementation, especially when it comes to content generated with these tools. Even so, Steam data reveals that games integrating generative AI have enjoyed a surprisingly strong year, generating an estimated $660 million in revenue.
According to a report by Totally Human Media analyst Ichiro Lambe, 10,258 games on Steam currently disclose the use of generative AI, accounting for roughly 8% of the platform’s total catalog. This marks a substantial increase from the 7,818 titles reported just five months earlier. Although Valve requires studios to declare any AI usage at any point during development, the continued rise suggests these tools are becoming a standard part of content production.
From an economic perspective, the results are particularly telling. The figures clearly contradict the idea that AI discourages buyers: 12 AI-assisted games have reached eight-figure revenues, 33 have surpassed the one-million-dollar mark, and another 170 have generated six-figure earnings. While Totally Human Media notes that most developers cite AI use for small, peripheral tasks, many others downplay its role or fail to disclose its use on Steam altogether.
Generative Artificial Intelligence Is Here to Stay
As mentioned earlier, the adoption of generative AI has not been free of controversy. Upcoming titles such as Divinity and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 have found themselves at the center of the debate, prompting Swen Vincke to announce an AMA to address fan concerns. Meanwhile, Sandfall’s RPG saw its Indie Awards Game of the Year title revoked. Some critics have directly linked industry layoffs to the rise of AI, a view the CEO of CD Projekt RED has openly rejected.
The study concludes that AI is currently used primarily for minor tasks such as generating additional artwork, refining dialogue, or assisting with localization. However, its presence in games earning tens of millions of dollars suggests it is becoming part of mainstream production rather than remaining confined to experimental projects. Major publishers like Ubisoft and Krafton have fully embraced artificial intelligence, while smaller studios, such as the creators of Dispatch, continue to argue that it should be kept out of the creative process and limited strictly to “production tasks.” What is clear is that the debate will only intensify throughout 2026.
Source: 3djuegos
