A detailed transcript of a recent Nintendo shareholders meeting covers an answer from Shuntaro Furukawa about the company’s use of generative AI.
Thanks to those good and capable people over at Automaton, the actual answer from Furukawa about the use of generative AI in games was more involved than has been covered elsewhere. Specifically, here is his answer to question four from the transcript that covers the use of AI.
“The game industry has been using AI-like technology for enemy character behavior and the like for a long time, which is why I think game development and AI have a close relationship to begin with. The generative AI that’s become prominent recently can do even more creative things, but it is also problematic in terms of intellectual property rights.
Over decades, we have accumulated know-how in crafting the optimal gaming experience for our audiences. While remaining flexible with regard to technological developments, we intend to continue to deliver the kind of qualities unique to Nintendo, which cannot be created by technology alone.”
The first point about AI being used in games for a long time already is entirely true. The fact that much of the recent AI boom has come from Nvidia’s gaming graphics cards is also notable.
However, Furukawa doesn’t dismiss the use of generative AI, as the company is openly flexible to new technology. Most crucially of all, is that Nintendo is not beholden to new technology when it comes to making games, which we already knew.
Much like how Nintendo didn’t really jump on the VR bandwagon, they are being similarly thoughtful and cautious about modern advancements in AI. That isn’t the same thing as saying that generative AI will never be used, but that it is being carefully reviewed, as with all new technologies.
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