Fumito Ueda’s New Studio Stays Clear of AI in Game Development Amid Industry Backlash

Gen Atlas unveiled a new trailer at Summer Game Fest 2026, showcasing the latest project from the visionary director of Shadow of the Colossus, who is crafting an exciting sci-fi adventure for Epic Games. Fumito Ueda, the legendary developer behind iconic titles like Ico and The Last Guardian, hasn’t set a release date for this highly anticipated game, but he has made it clear that his new studio is steering clear of generative AI in the development process.

In a recent interview, Ueda emphasized that “everything that is considered game development” is “made by humans.” This likely includes crucial elements such as prototyping, concept art, and even the underlying code for Gen Atlas. His studio, genDESIGN, is collaborating with Epic Games under a publishing agreement, and while they utilize generative AI for administrative tasks—like scheduling and summarizing meeting notes—they are not using it to create any game assets.

This approach sets Gen Atlas apart from titles like Crazy Taxi and Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis, which have incorporated generative AI in their development processes, as noted in their Steam listings. Kenji Kanno, the creator of Crazy Taxi, explained that their team used AI-generated images as references, allowing artists to draw inspiration from them while ensuring that all final assets were crafted by human hands.

The mixed reception of Crazy Taxi’s AI involvement has raised concerns among fans, as developers navigate the fine line between leveraging technology for efficiency and maintaining player expectations. In contrast, Gen Atlas appears to be using AI strictly for logistical support, leaving the creative aspects firmly in the hands of its talented team. Given Ueda’s track record, it may take some time before Gen Atlas is ready to make its grand debut.