Nintendo is just the latest company to address the use of generative AI in games. However, the Japanese giant stands out for its cautious approach. Others in the industry, like EA and Ubisoft, have been quicker to embrace what they see as AI’s potential to improve their games. EA claims development could become up to 30% more efficient through AI usage, while Ubisoft is exploring its potential for everything from NPC dialogue to internal processes. Xbox and graphics card giant Nvidia are also on board with generative AI, though the impact on player experience remains unclear.
Nintendo’s president, Shuntaro Furukawa, recently addressed the use of generative AI in gaming during a Q&A session with investors reported by TweakTown. While acknowledging its potential for more creative game elements, Furukawa expressed concerns about potential intellectual property (IP) rights issues with generative AI. Furukawa elaborated by highlighting Nintendo’s “decades of know-how” in crafting games and their focus on delivering a unique value proposition. It’s important to note that Furukawa doesn’t reject the possibility of Nintendo ever using generative AI. He indicated the company remains flexible in responding to technological developments.
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However, Nintendo’s caution seems justified. Beyond the IP concerns, generative AI faces broader challenges like its potential environmental impact and tendency to generate inaccurate outputs, sometimes referred to as “hallucination.” These are serious issues that AI proponents wrestle with as well.
The Future of AI in Gaming
Of course, there’s always a chance that Nintendo will change its stance regarding AI in the future, although the gaming giant has never been particularly timely when it comes to trends. Regardless, with so many major players invested, generative AI is sure to play a role in the future of gaming. It will be interesting to see how developers leverage this technology to create engaging and innovative player experiences.
