Epic Games Pushes AI-First Development, Tells Developers ‘No More Hand-Written Code’
Fortnite maker Epic Games is encouraging developers to use AI tools for coding and artwork as it reshapes production. The move follows 1,000 job cuts in March and a delay to its Disney-linked game.
Epic Games is shifting towards an AI-first production model, asking developers to rely more heavily on artificial intelligence tools for coding and artwork. The move comes as the Fortnite maker delays an upcoming video game collaboration with Disney.
According to a Bloomberg report, developers working on the project have been instructed to use AI tools, including Claude. A director reportedly told staff, “No more hand-written code,” signalling a shift towards AI-generated programming. Human employees are expected to guide and manage the production process.
The Disney-linked game is believed to be a shooter featuring characters from Marvel and Star Wars. Initially planned for release in March, the project is now expected to arrive later.
Epic CEO Tim Sweeney has described the company’s strategy as a major shift towards AI. In posts on X, he said the company was reorganising developers to accelerate AI adoption. However, Sweeney denied that the goal was to replace workers, saying the aim was to help teams create more and better content.
The announcement follows Epic Games’ decision to lay off around 1,000 employees in March 2026, representing roughly 20% of its global workforce. The cuts formed part of a restructuring effort expected to save more than $500 million.
The AI-first directive reportedly surprised some developers, with employees raising concerns about handling errors in AI-generated code.
The shift reflects a wider industry trend, as technology companies increasingly integrate AI into software development while weighing its costs and limitations.
