Capcom plans to integrate AI technology in game development

Capcom is developing its RE Engine for AI era as part of its REX technology programme Photo: CAPCOM Capcom plans to integrate AI technology into its RE Engine as part of a long-term effort to streamline game development, following a presentation by studio programmer Satoshi Ishida. The plans were discussed during Capcom's recent technology conference, where Ishida outlined changes being developed through an improvement programme called 'REX'. The initiative is intended to build on the existing RE Engine rather than replace it with a new engine. According to the presentation, Capcom is facing challenges as games become larger and more time-consuming to develop, increasing the need for additional staff and an engine that is easier to use. Ishida said AI technology would be integrated 'into development workflows' as an 'essential condition for streamlining future development'. A key part of REX involves making some of its improvements open-source to help train AI. Capcom's long-term goal was initially reported as turning the RE Engine into an 'AI-generation game engine'. However, a subsequent clarification suggested the wording may have been mistranslated. Twitter user HazzadorGamin said the intended description was that the RE Engine is becoming a 'game engine for the AI era'. That distinction could indicate that Capcom intends to develop the engine for an industry increasingly using AI-assisted technology rather than necessarily creating games with generative AI. Capcom has previously said it uses AI to 'free up time for creative work', while also stating that it would not ship games containing AI-generated assets.