Take-Two’s ex-AI boss says the generative AI hype is “poisoning the well” and could ward off all use of traditional AI in the future
Take-Two’s former artificial intelligence chief has criticized the generative AI hype cycle in video game development, warning that excessive enthusiasm around the technology is “poisoning the well” and could create a lasting backlash against all forms of AI in games.
The executive noted that the industry has already “stumbled into the trough of disillusionment” regarding generative AI and large language models. These technologies have become highly controversial in gaming, with players and critics actively scrutinizing games for evidence of generative AI use, particularly on platforms like Steam.
Take-Two Interactive, parent company of Rockstar Games (developer of Grand Theft Auto 6), previously maintained an entire division dedicated to researching how artificial intelligence could benefit game development. However, the company laid off the entire AI research team in April 2026, signaling shifting sentiment around AI adoption in the industry. The former AI chief’s comments suggest the decision may reflect concerns about how generative AI hype specifically is damaging perceptions of AI technology more broadly, potentially discouraging adoption of traditional AI tools alongside the controversial generative variants.