Epic is updating its EULA to allow AI training on outputs from Unreal Engine and MetaHuman
Epic Games will update its EULA to permit AI training on outputs from Unreal Engine and MetaHuman, though developers may still restrict this for individual projects.
Epic CEO Tim Sweeney announced via a post on X that the company plans to modify its End User License Agreement (EULA) to permit AI training on outputs generated using Unreal Engine and MetaHuman. The current EULA explicitly prohibits such use, but Sweeney indicated the restriction will be removed in future updates. Developers will retain the autonomy to impose their own restrictions on AI training for specific games or projects.
The announcement follows criticism from outlets like Kotaku, which highlighted a perceived inconsistency between Epic's support for AI technology and its prohibition of AI-coded recreations of its games. Sweeney responded by defending Epic's stance while revealing the planned EULA changes. He emphasized that Epic does not permit unauthorized use of its intellectual property, such as creating a browser-based version of Fortnite without permission.
Sweeney’s recent activity on X has intensified, with over 50 posts in the past week, including responses to concerns about AI in software development. He has also criticized disclosure requirements he views as politically motivated, arguing for a separation between software and political statements. The frequency of his posts suggests a deliberate effort to shape public discourse on AI and gaming.
Epic has not provided additional details regarding the timeline or specifics of the EULA changes in response to inquiries from Game Developer. The company’s shift toward an "AI-first" model appears to be influencing its licensing policies, though the practical implications for developers remain to be clarified.