EA is reportedly pushing generative AI across its development teams, with employees describing frustration over workloads and management’s enthusiasm for the technology. The report also raises questions about what that direction could mean for future EA Star Wars games.
In brief:
- EA employees say generative AI is being strongly encouraged internally.
- Workers describe poor morale and pressure to maintain output with smaller teams.
- The report provides no confirmation of AI use in a specific upcoming Star Wars game.
EA Workers Describe Growing Generative AI Pressure
In an October 27 report, Vertical Slice spoke with current and former EA employees about working conditions following layoffs. Sources said generative AI was being heavily promoted, although its use had yet to become a formal requirement.
One employee described managers’ enthusiasm for Claude, while others questioned whether AI adoption was intended to help the company operate with fewer staff. These are employees’ accounts of the situation.
EA Employee Says Morale Has Been “Terrible”
“Morale has been terrible,” one source told Vertical Slice.
The employee said management’s calls to reduce scope and improve quality clashed with their experience of handling similar workloads with fewer colleagues. Vertical Slice said it had contacted EA for comment.
What Could EA’s AI Push Mean for Future Star Wars Games?
For Star Wars fans, the obvious question is whether this approach will reach Respawn’s Jedi series.
EA announced in September 2024 that Respawn was developing the final chapter of its Star Wars Jedi story. That makes the series relevant to questions about EA’s development priorities, though that announcement offered no details about generative AI’s role in the project.
A broader company push could influence the tools available to its studios. However, claiming the next Jedi game will feature AI-generated dialogue, characters, or environments would go beyond the available evidence. Internal development tools and content that actually appears in a finished game are separate questions.
EA Has Already Made AI Part of Its Business Strategy
EA’s interest in AI has been public for years. During its September 2024 Investor Day, the publisher outlined AI as part of its plans to improve efficiency, expand its capabilities, and transform its business. The company also discussed growing its operating margins and investing in blockbuster storytelling.
Now, for players waiting on another Star Wars adventure, the useful next step would be a clear explanation of how those ambitions affect development. Which tasks would the tools handle? How would developers review the results? Until EA or Respawn shares project-specific details, the impact on the next Jedi game remains an open question.
