The AI SLOP Tsunami just hit Steam...

Summary

The presenter argues that Steam’s October 2026 Next Fest has been overwhelmed by a rapid increase in demos, many of which they consider low-effort, AI-generated releases. They cite about 4,300 demo applications at June’s event, roughly one in five of which were marked as using AI. By October, the number had risen to more than 7,000, with about one in three declaring AI use. The presenter later refers to 8,000 demos, suggesting the total may have continued to grow.

In their view, this volume makes it harder for players, developers, and games media to find worthwhile titles. They also point to critical reactions from games coverage, including Kotaku.

The presenter contrasts Next Fest with Tokyo Game Show, which reportedly had more than 1,000 entries and a high proportion of games that used AI during development. They say that event did not receive the same criticism because participation required greater commitment and AI use was more measured. Their central distinction is that AI use alone does not make a game bad: the problem is using it to replace creative effort and judgment rather than support a developer’s work.

They criticize what they describe as a “gold rush” mentality: rapidly producing multiple games to test the market, with little interest in craft or sustained development. AI can make simple, familiar games and attractive-looking presentations easier to produce, they say, but strong design, pacing, balance, and originality still require time and iteration. They also warn that over-reliance on AI can deprive developers of the learning and creative discoveries that come from making a game themselves.

The presenter acknowledges having reservations about AI and its effects on artists while also using AI tools professionally to work more efficiently. They describe their own indie game, Blood and Mead, as a project developed over several years with handmade code and commissioned art and music. In their view, refinement is essential to making a good game.

They suggest that Next Fest may need changes to address the flood of submissions. A simple ban or filter for AI-made content could encourage developers to hide their use of AI, so they propose that Steam consider some form of moderation or community review. They conclude that games with deeper systems and distinctive experiences have an opportunity to stand out as basic, easily replicated games become more common.

Presenters and Contributors

• Presenter: Lost Relic Games host; name not given in the subtitles.
• Referenced contributor: Chris Sakowski of How to Market a Game.
• Referenced publication: Kotaku; no individual writer is named.