With the rise of generative AI, various companies are looking to use it. But not Nintendo, according to its president, who recently clarified the company's stand on the technology.
This means that Nintendo will stick to its current game development program, wherein everything is born out of human work and intelligence. However, another kind of AI has still been used in the gaming industry, which Nintendo has deployed, but the company claims that it is different from generative AI.
(Photo : Nintendo Japan)
Nintendo Is Saying 'No' to Generative AI in Games, President Reveals
In a recent Nintendo shareholders Q&A, the company's president, Shuntaro Furukawa, expressed sentiments about generative AI's rise in future game adoption.
He clarified that Nintendo will not go in the generative AI direction for developing its games soon. Furukawa said that the company will continue to deliver the "unique" value of what Nintendo brings to the table for fans and gamers worldwide.
He also believed that Nintendo's exceptional experiences offered to gamers "cannot be created by technology alone," suggesting that Nintendo will still focus on human-made content with the help of technology.
"Generative AI, which is becoming a big topic recently, can be used in creative ways, but we recognize that it may also raise issues with intellectual property rights. We have decades of know-how in creating the best gaming experiences for our players," Furukawa said in the Q&A with investors.
"While we are open to utilizing technological developments, we will work to continue delivering value that is unique to Nintendo and cannot be created by technology alone," he added.
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Traditional AI vs. Generative AI in Games, According to Nintendo
While Furukawa recognizes the advancing technologies available today, he noted that Nintendo still uses "AI-like technologies" for its game development.
The Nintendo president gave an example, saying that this technology is used to "control the movements" of various game characters. Furukawa said it will continue to use traditional AI in gaming but not generative AI, citing potential intellectual property issues in the future.
Generative AI Coming to Gaming For Other Developers
The rise of generative AI has prompted many to believe in and hope for its presence in the gaming industry, with some considering it a game changer.
Among those who see AI's value in improving gaming is Square Enix, the company behind the renowned Final Fantasy franchise, claiming to use generative AI for Foamstars. Not only was Square Enix open to generative AI for its game development, but French company Ubisoft also revealed a similar take.
Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot discussed Assassin's Creed game remake developments and claimed that he supported generative AI to make non-player characters (NPCs) in games more interactive.
With two of the largest gaming companies in the world open to generative AI in games, other studios are also considering employing the technology for their future releases.
However, Nintendo would not be part of this revolution in the gaming industry, as it would stick with traditional AI for its developments but avoid generative AI in the process.
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