No More Written Code? Epic’s AI-first Push Intensifies & Xbox Labs is Announced

The Weekly Download by Big Games Machine is your essential weekly speedrun through the biggest stories in the global video games industry.

This week's story:

• Epic's Disney project reportedly shifts to 'AI-First' development
• Ubisoft to reduce workforce across Düsseldorf, Berlin, and Mainz as part of "proposed voluntary departure plan"
• Ubisoft is also closing Trials developer RedLynx
• Xbox Announces Xbox Labs, a new team aimed at experimenting with "emerging ideas"
• Rockstar says its next game won’t take another eight years to make

Hosted by industry experts, John and Alex, we break down the most intriguing, complex, and vital developments of the week to keep you informed.

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Links to today’s talking points:

• https://www.gamedeveloper.com/programming/no-more-hand-written-code-epic-s-disney-project-reportedly-shifts-to-ai-first-development
• https://www.gamesindustry.biz/ubisoft-to-reduce-workforce-across-dusseldorf-berlin-and-mainz-as-part-of-proposed-voluntary-departure-plan
• https://www.gamesindustry.biz/ubisoft-closing-trials-developer-redlynx-and-cutting-jobs-in-singapore-studio
• https://thisweekinvideogames.com/news/xbox-announces-xbox-labs-a-new-team-aimed-at-experimenting-with-emerging-ideas/
• https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/rockstar-says-its-next-game-after-grand-theft-auto-6-wont-take-another-eight-years-to-make/