A cat-stroking simulator, a neural network for Roblox, and new consoles — the main things from GDC 2025 (updated)

Game Developers Conference or GDC is an event where video game developers share their experiences, give lectures and demonstrate their projects. The exhibition is designed primarily for industry professionals, but there is also something for casual visitors to see. In 2025, it will be held from March 17 to 21. Our article is dedicated to the most interesting games and technologies that were shown at GDC 2025.

NVIDIA held a demonstration of artificial intelligence-based technologies. They allow you to achieve almost photorealistic graphics, atmospheric lighting and deep shadows on the Unreal Engine 5 without losing performance. For this, you will need the flagship RTX 5090 graphics card. NVIDIA and Microsoft also announced a collaboration in the field of neural rendering. The DirectX 12 Agility SDK preview will integrate the RTX Neural Shading package.

Starting in April, developers will be able to get special plugins that use these technologies. But it is not yet known when the first games with such capabilities will be released.

Roblox is releasing a special tool Cube 3D, which will allow you to create your own three-dimensional models using artificial intelligence. The source code is open, so you can use your developments and improve them.

In addition, there was an announcement of neural networks that generate text and convert it into live speech. It is possible to perform the reverse operation — decipher an audio file and get lines of dialogue. Such functions allow you to quickly create new games on the Roblox platform.

Neural networks are actively used to create new video games. You can use the GameAlfy program as a tool. With its help, you are free to create models, textures and other elements. At the same time, artificial intelligence ensures that all objects are made in the same style.

At GDC 2025, they showed off the AYANEO Pocket S2 portable console, which runs on Android. It has a 6.3-inch IPS display with a resolution of 1440p and a very powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon G3 Gen 3 processor. Manufacturers promise a capacious battery that holds a charge longer than other similar devices. The start date of sales has not yet been announced.

This foldable console has two screens, almost like a Nintendo DS. The controllers can rotate and change their position. The form factor looks interesting, but it is not yet entirely clear how the capabilities of such a portable device will be used in games. Perhaps a separate library is planned, but it is unlikely that such an idea will be supported by third-party developers.

This game invites you to pet a cat using a special controller that resembles a furry back of a pet. Judging by the demonstration videos, you will need to not just run your hand over the fur, but move it at high speed. In reality, the cat will not like such caresses — it will try to run away or hit you with its paw. On the other hand, the game can be a good alternative to working out in the gym.

The game Hero's Hand has been announced. This is a roguelike with RPG elements and the ability to upgrade, where you will fight enemies using playing cards. The main task is to build poker combinations on the battlefield in the spirit of a full house or a royal flush. Enemies will turn over your cards and block them. Regular weapons and various potions are also used.

The demonstration of the DLC for ARK: Survival Evolved caused discontent on the Internet. The reason is simple: the trailer was completely generated by a neural network. Users could not believe that they were looking at an official video, and not fan art. After three thousand dislikes on YouTube, the video was decided to be hidden from public access — it is only available via a link.

Unlike Lost Colony, the plot of the Aquatica DLC will not be part of the general canon. We are waiting for a new story from the life of the underwater world and 17 unique creatures.

The material is being updated...

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Are you interested in new products from GDC 2025? Or do you not follow such events? We are waiting for your opinions in the comments!