Empirical insights into AI-assisted game development: A case study on the integration of generative AI tools in creative pipelines

This study conducts an empirical exploration of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools across the game development pipeline, from concept art creation to 3D model integration in a game engine. Employing AI generators like Leonardo AI, Scenario AI, Alpha 3D, and Luma AI, the research investigates their application in generating game assets. The process, documented in a diary-like format, ranges from producing concept art using fantasy game prompts to optimizing 3D models in Blender and applying them in Unreal Engine 5. The findings highlight the potential of AI to enhance the conceptualization phase and identify challenges in producing optimized, high-quality 3D models suitable for game development. This study reveals the current limitations and ethical considerations of AI in game design, suggesting that while generative AI tools hold significant promise for transforming game development, their full integration depends on overcoming these hurdles and gaining broader industry acceptance.