Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney Criticizes Steam Over AI Disclosure Rules

Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney has criticized Steam’s policy requiring game developers to disclose their use of artificial intelligence, arguing that such labels could expose developers to online backlash.

Sweeney made the comments on social media while responding to criticism of Steam’s AI disclosure requirements. He described the policy as “abhorrent,” claiming that mandatory disclosures could be used by groups opposed to AI-generated content to target developers.

Tim Sweeney Objects to Steam’s AI Labels

The discussion began after an employee from a generative media company criticized the requirement for developers to identify AI-generated content in their games.

The employee argued that AI disclosures were outdated and embarrassing for Valve and its Steam platform. Sweeney appeared to agree with the criticism and responded by objecting to developers being required to make such statements.

According to Sweeney, forcing developers to disclose their AI usage could effectively make them easier targets for online criticism.

His comments add to an ongoing debate within the gaming industry over how much information developers should provide when artificial intelligence is involved in game development.

Steam Requires Developers to Disclose AI Use

Steam has introduced disclosure information for games that use generative AI during development or in their final content. The information can help players understand whether AI-generated material is included in a game before purchasing it.

The policy is particularly relevant as AI tools become increasingly common for creating artwork, dialogue, voices, coding assistance and other game-development assets.

Supporters of disclosure argue that customers should know when AI has been used, particularly when the technology affects content that players directly experience.

Critics, meanwhile, argue that mandatory labeling can create a negative perception around games that use AI-assisted development, even when developers use the technology only for limited tasks.

Epic Games Has Embraced AI Development

Sweeney's criticism is notable because Epic Games has increasingly promoted AI-assisted development and tools.

Earlier this month, Epic highlighted a new version of its storefront that it described as being heavily created using AI-assisted or “vibe coding” techniques. Epic also emphasized performance improvements compared with Steam.

Valve subsequently released a Steam update that reportedly improved the platform's startup performance, reducing some of the difference between the two storefronts.

Epic has also promoted its 2026 AI MegaJam, an event centered around artificial intelligence and game development.

AI Remains a Divisive Topic in Gaming

Artificial intelligence has become one of the most controversial technologies in the gaming industry.

Game developers are using AI tools for a wide range of tasks, including concept development, programming assistance, artwork, voice-related work and other production processes. At the same time, some developers, artists and players remain concerned about copyright, originality, employment and the quality of AI-generated content.

The debate over Steam's disclosure policy highlights the wider disagreement about how AI should be handled in games.

For players, disclosure can provide additional information before purchasing a title. For developers, however, mandatory labeling may create concerns that their games could receive negative attention simply because AI was involved somewhere in the production process.

As AI becomes more deeply integrated into game development, platforms such as Steam and Epic Games Store are likely to continue facing questions about transparency, labeling and how much information developers should provide to consumers.