Epic Games changes rules for AI MegaJam competition following developer backlash

Epic Games announced the AI MegaJam on October 22, an Unreal Engine competition where creators make video games quickly, Game World Observer and GamesRadar reported. The contest features 50,000 dollars in grants and cash prizes, according to Dexerto, Polygon, and Destructoid. [1][2][4][5][6]

The event initially faced criticism after its rules stated that the use of artificial intelligence was mandatory, Game World Observer reported. GamesRadar noted that the event originally promised unlimited agentic support. Social media users on Platform X criticized the studio, accusing Epic Games of presenting generative artificial intelligence as a necessary tool for quick game development, according to Game World Observer. [1][4]

Following the reaction, Epic Games altered the rules on October 22, admitting the original requirement was a mistake, Game World Observer reported. The company updated its stance to allow participants to use as little or as much artificial intelligence as they want, or none at all, according to Game World Observer and GamesRadar. [1][4]

The competition follows a report earlier in October claiming Epic Games instructed developers on an upcoming Marvel and Star Wars crossover shooter to adopt an artificial intelligence approach for code and artwork generation, Dexerto reported. Dexerto also noted that Epic Games recently used artificial intelligence to build a new version of its PC launcher. [2]