Generative AI is the topic on everyone’s lips, especially in all the arts based industries. Within the video game industry that topic is especially hot due to the ongoing strike by SAG AFTRA which is seeking better protections against AI for actors. In contrast video game companies seem to be embracing AI with gusto, according to the comments made by leaders at Electronic Arts including CEO Andrew Wilson. However, Nintendo might just be a source of hope.
In a recent interview with the New York Times, prominent video game designer, director, and producer Shigeru Miyamoto commented on Nintendo’s resistance to using AI, saying that compared to the vast majority of the gaming industry who is “going the same direction, Nintendo would prefer to go different direction.” Miyamoto comments echo sentiments shared by Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa in July.
During a Q&A session with shareholders, Furukawa said that despite AI’s potential, it also could cause problems with intellectual properties. Considering the struggle many artists have been facing to keep their jobs in the face of companies looking to offload artists’ work to AI, it’s reassuring to hear Nintendo stand in opposition to the trend. Solidarity, whether unintentional or not, for those fighting for more AI protections in contracts with video game companies, is extremely appreciated.
At the core of both Miyamoto and Furukawa’s statements is the idea that AI lacks the ability to replace people. Considering the ballooning energy requirements, its efficiency advantage might also become more of a debate, especially considering the climate crisis the planet is enduring. What the turn to AI is showing people is that companies are willing to sacrifice quality in the hopes of pursuing higher profits with less cost. Whether these plans work out in the long run remains to be seen, but it seems like Nintendo will not be following that path. Nintendo fans can rest easy for now.