Epic reveals gen AI is used to make new Fortnite concept designs

Epic Games is utilizing generative AI programs and tools like Nano Banana and GPT Image to help with the early designs of Fortnite content.

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Epic has given an interesting behind-the-scenes look at how it's using gen AI to make games. The industry-leading engine-maker, which has also made $20 billion gross revenue from Fortnite in less than 8 years, is using gen AI tools in a bid to create content faster and more "efficiently."

Now in a recent video, Epic shows an example of its workflow using gen AI. The developers highlight various tools, including an in-house "genmedia" bridge built right into Photoshop, and go through the step-by-step process. Epic starts with a sketch hand-drawn by an actual person, and that is then passed through the custom genmedia bridge which basically lets devs use written AI prompts to adjust the image.

"Like when 3D artists put their model through a 3D renderer to get a refined result, the artist here prompts genmedia with some guardrails to help take the 2D rendering further on his concept."

AI isn't perfect though and artists still have to touch up the image if it's not what they wanted. AI makes mistakes and will often add things that artists did not ask for into the images, requiring actual humans to edit and modify the AI-assist renders.

"The creative control stays in the hands of the creator," the Epic artist said.

Epic's genmedia tools are only being used to create concept art that isn't actually seen by players in the final game. Early design concepting can range from artwork to compilation Powerpoints that mashup tons of themes, imagery, and visuals from other properties and franchises.

It seems like Epic is trying to ease both developers and players into gen AI becoming more commonplace as the games industry seeks to find new ways to streamline content production.

Generative AI remains controversial, and there are claims that Epic actually scraped Artstation to power its new technology (Epic bought Artstation in 2021).