Epic Games CEO criticizes Steam's AI disclosure policy

Tim Sweeney, CEO of Epic Games, has condemned Valve's policy on the Steam platform that requires developers to disclose the use of generative AI in game production. Sweeney described the requirement as an “odious” and forced “political statement” that could be weaponized against developers by hostile online communities.

Sweeney argued that mandatory disclosures could negatively impact the commercial success of games, particularly for smaller studios, by making them targets for criticism. This stance comes as Epic Games moves toward broader integration of AI tools in its own development processes.

In contrast, Steam's policy, which has been in place since early 2024, requires studios to explain how and why generative AI was used for content such as graphics, audio, and other digital elements. While some industry figures and players support transparency to inform purchasing decisions, Sweeney maintains that AI will eventually become a standard technical detail in nearly all production processes.