Epic Games pushes AI tools as unannounced Marvel‑Star Wars shooter faces delay

Delay announced for Disney crossover shooter Epic Games, the studio behind Fortnite, is said to have pushed back the release of an unannounced shooter that would combine characters from Marvel and Star Wars. The project, a partnership with Disney, had been slated for a March 2027 launch but now lacks a confirmed release window, Bloomberg reported based on sources familiar with the development.

Shift to an AI‑first production model According to the same Bloomberg coverage, internal communications have instructed Epic's development teams to prioritise generative AI tools for the remainder of the game's creation. The memo reportedly directs staff to move away from traditional hand‑written code and to incorporate AI‑generated assets, with specific mention of Anthropic's Claude as a preferred technology.

Context and industry reaction The information was first detailed by journalist Jason Schreier, who cited anonymous insiders familiar with the project. Both GameSpot and Eurogamer referenced Schreier’s report, noting that the shift reflects a broader industry trend toward accelerated development through artificial intelligence. While the delay and the AI‑centric approach have been confirmed by multiple outlets, no official comment from Epic Games or Disney has been published as of the reporting date.

Potential impact on the project The adoption of an "AI‑first" pipeline suggests that Epic aims to speed up production while managing the complexities of a high‑profile crossover. However, the exact implications for the game's design, quality, or timeline remain unclear, as the sources did not provide further details beyond the strategic shift.

Looking ahead The delayed shooter remains unannounced, and its future release date is pending. Observers will be watching how Epic's integration of AI tools influences both this title and its broader development practices, especially given the high expectations surrounding a Marvel and Star Wars collaboration.