Take-Two Interactive, the publisher behind Grand Theft Auto 6, has quietly trimmed its artificial intelligence department just months before the game's highly anticipated release. The company’s head of AI, Luke Dicken, along with an undisclosed number of his team members, have been let go in a move that makes people wonder about the publisher’s approach to AI in game development.

Leadership Shakeup in AI Department

Luke Dicken, who took charge of Take-Two’s AI division in early 2023 after a decade at Zynga, revealed on LinkedIn that his time with the company—and that of several team members—had ended. Dicken expressed disappointment over the layoffs and asked his network to help the affected employees find new roles amid a challenging job market.

His team had been working on advanced AI technologies intended to streamline game development processes for around seven years. Before joining Take-Two, Dicken had been leading generative AI initiatives at Zynga, focusing on blending AI with mobile gaming and exploring large language models and diffusion models.

Mixed Signals on AI Adoption

Take-Two has shown mixed signals about AI. CEO Strauss Zelnick has publicly acknowledged AI's potential to improve efficiency but has remained cautious about its creative capabilities. In March 2025, Zelnick dismissed concerns about AI creating game hits, calling the technology "backwards-looking" and emphasizing that human creativity remains the driving force behind successful games.

He specifically pointed out that generative AI had "zero part" in Rockstar Games’ development of Grand Theft Auto 6, despite earlier comments praising Take-Two’s leadership in AI adoption. The company’s recent AI team layoffs show this uncertain stance.

Industry Context and Timing

The layoffs happened at an odd time for AI in gaming. Other companies, like Capcom, have publicly embraced generative AI tools to boost productivity. Meanwhile, tech showcases such as Nvidia’s DLSS 5 have showed how AI can both help and hinder game quality, revealing the technology’s double-edged nature.

Take-Two’s move also follows earlier layoffs at Rockstar, its key development studio, where senior staff working on GTA 6 were dismissed amid controversies over leaks and morale issues. The trimming of the AI team adds another layer to the company’s internal reshuffling ahead of a crucial product launch.

What Lies Ahead for AI at Take-Two?

Take-Two has yet to comment publicly on the reason behind the layoffs or the future direction of its AI efforts. Dicken mentioned plans for a more reflective post about his tenure, but for now, the focus is on helping displaced colleagues.

This change raises questions about AI’s role in future games. While efficiency gains might still be sought, it’s clear that Take-Two isn't betting heavily on generative AI to create core game content anytime soon.

With AI hype growing in tech and entertainment, Take-Two’s cautious move might mean they’re rethinking how AI fits into big game development.

As GTA 6 nears release, losing the AI lead and team members shows the tricky balance between new tech and creative game making. It’s unclear if this is just a pause or a bigger shift in strategy.