On March 18, rumors emerged online suggesting that NetEase was conducting a large-scale dismissal of outsourced personnel. The claims included phrases such as "mass layoffs," "30% of outsourced staff to be cut by April 1," "full termination by May 1," and "elimination of all outsourcing." As these discussions gained traction, further speculation arose, including assertions that "all employees must use AI upon returning to work after the holiday and include it in weekly reports," "new projects will fully adopt AI, while older projects must reach over 50% AI usage," and "efficiency improvements from AI adoption have led to early layoffs."

Regarding these claims, inquiries were made to NetEase, which responded: "The online rumors about 'using AI to eliminate all outsourced staff' are untrue. Due to project adjustments and regular personnel turnover, the company plans to gradually phase out some outsourced employees in basic skill positions. This process will not affect the normal operations of the company or its various business units."

The emergence of such rumors reflects, to some extent, the growing uncertainty among gaming industry professionals amid rapid AI advancements. Regardless of how organizational changes are framed—whether as strategic retrenchment, structural optimization, or productivity transformation—when these decisions impact individual employees, they inevitably raise questions such as, "How much longer will my job last?"

Indeed, AI's current integration into the gaming industry is largely characterized by its role as a tool. However, whether—and when—such tools might replace human roles remains a complex and contentious issue. Over time, many positions and their perceived value may face reassessment, compelling numerous individuals to reconsider the longevity of their careers.