Games Workshop, the creator of Warhammer, has banned its developers from using AI — but admits it’s still inquisitive about the tech — “None are thatexcited about it yet”

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Games Workshop, the creators of Warhammer, has prohibited its developers from using AI tools, though they remain interested in the technology. This situation reflects a common dilemma for many studios: they’re announcing a rejection of AI to safeguard jobs, but are simultaneously investigating how it could potentially change their processes, reduce expenses, and influence the content they create.

If you enjoy tabletop or miniature wargames, you’ve likely heard of Warhammer and Warhammer 40,000. These fantasy and sci-fi series are the most popular tabletop wargames globally. Their creator, Games Workshop, allows other companies to make all sorts of products based on them, including toys, board games, books, and video games.

Generative AI is everywhere these days, and while it has some benefits, I personally think it’s mostly negative, particularly for those living near the large data centers that power it. This has led many to ask if Games Workshop will incorporate AI into the creation and licensing of its Warhammer games, and if so, how they might do it.

Okay, so we finally got some official word on whether Games Workshop is using AI! The CEO, Kevin Rountree, just said in the latest report that their staff aren’t allowed to use it right now, and honestly, most of them don’t seem that interested. But, a few of the higher-ups are still keeping an eye on it and seeing what it could do, so it’s not completely off the table.

Rountree started by admitting AI is a vast subject and that he doesn’t specialize in it, then went on to say the following:

A few senior managers are aware of AI, but haven’t fully embraced it yet. We’ve created an internal policy to help us navigate this, and it’s currently quite conservative. For example, we prohibit the use of AI-generated content or AI in our design work, and we don’t allow it to be used outside of the company, even in our competitions. We’re also focused on protecting our data and ensuring security and compliance, as AI and machine learning tools often come pre-installed on our devices, regardless of our preference.

We’re still encouraging a small group of senior managers to explore the technology. We’ve also reaffirmed our dedication to safeguarding our intellectual property and valuing the contributions of our human artists and writers. During this period, we continued to invest in the Warhammer Studio, bringing on more talented creatives – including concept artists, writers, and sculptors – who help make Warhammer the immersive and beloved franchise it is for our fans and for us.

Games Workshop has currently banned its employees from using generative AI, stating they want to protect their artists and writers. However, the company is still exploring how AI could be used without impacting its commitment to its staff.

Whether you see AI’s increasing role in entertainment as a good or bad thing will probably determine how you react to this news. I, for one, am pleased that Games Workshop is clearly opposing the use of AI, and I hope this applies to the developers they partner with on popular games like Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 and Warhammer 40,000: Darktide.

I’m a little concerned to hear managers are testing AI tools, but overall, this company’s approach is different from what we’re seeing in the gaming and entertainment industry. For example, Larian Studios, the developers of Baldur’s Gate 3, recently faced criticism for using AI to create initial concept art for their next game, Divinity. They stopped using it for that purpose, but admitted they’re still exploring AI in other areas and even considering building their own AI system.

During recent investor presentations, both Electronic Arts and Square Enix emphasized their commitment to artificial intelligence. Electronic Arts CEO Andrew Wilson said AI is central to their operations, while Square Enix pledged to actively integrate AI into their work. Notably, Electronic Arts faced criticism recently for using AI-generated items in the in-game store for their upcoming game, Battlefield 6.

AI is here to stay, and that’s likely true for a long time. I’m happy to see companies like Games Workshop resisting its use and choosing to continue supporting and investing in real people.

The news has left fans wondering about Games Workshop’s honesty and openness. Are they shielding their developers and the Warhammer brand, or keeping AI technology for themselves? Regardless, this situation highlights the difficult position many game studios are in – balancing caution with the potential of AI – and it’s clear this discussion will continue for a long time.

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2026-01-17 19:11