[Submitted on 21 Mar 2025 (v1), last revised 30 Oct 2026 (this version, v3)]
Abstract:Modern game development faces significant challenges in creativity and cost due to predetermined content in traditional game engines. Recent breakthroughs in video generation models, capable of synthesizing realistic and interactive virtual environments, present an opportunity to revolutionize game creation. This position paper argues that next-generation game engines should be built on Interactive Generative Video (IGV). We term such engines Generative Game Engines (GGE), with IGV as the perceptual and world-generation core under designer control. We argue why IGV is uniquely suited for this role, identify what is missing, and examine progress across six functional modules to show how each supports our position, culminating in a five-level maturity roadmap (L0-L4). Drawing on discussions with researchers, game developers, and community participants, we present nine alternative views and ethical considerations to stimulate debate.
Submission history
From: Jiwen Yu [view email]
[v1] Fri, 21 Mar 2025 17:59:22 UTC (5,338 KB)
[v2] Thu, 29 May 2025 16:42:53 UTC (4,020 KB)
[v3] Fri, 30 Oct 2026 08:45:22 UTC (4,017 KB)
