Nintendo Rejects the Idea of Working with Generative Artificial Intelligence

28 Ago Nintendo Rejects the Idea of Working with Generative Artificial Intelligence

Artificial Intelligence (AI) refers to the cognitive and intellectual capabilities demonstrated by a computer system, reflected in behavioural algorithms, whether in a machine or not. Although this may seem like a recently coined term, it has actually been associated with video games for decades in terms of system responses to player actions.

However, generative AI is a type of technology that, as its name suggests, generates patterns and response structures. What sets it apart from other AI systems is its ability to learn from the system in which it operates and, over time, develop activities that cannot be predicted or controlled by a human.

In video games, this translates to generative AI that not only helps create text, images, and video but also assists in programming a title or parts of it. This could be seen as a way to eliminate lengthy development processes or reduce the need for roles such as designers, creators, or programmers.

Regarding this topic, Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa has made a statement. The red N gaming giant is one of the most influential and profitable companies in the market, and according to its president, the company does not anticipate using generative AI in the short or medium term. This contrasts with other tech companies like Microsoft, which are also involved in this field.

At a Nintendo investors’ meeting, Shuntaro Furukawa responded to queries about the company’s plans concerning generative AI. “Generative AI, a popular topic in recent years, may be more creative, but we also recognise that it has issues with intellectual property rights,” said Furukawa.

This stance contrasts with other major players in the global scene, such as Ubisoft and Electronic Arts, which have embraced the idea of leveraging AI to develop their titles. However, for Nintendo, the focus remains on prioritising creativity, value, and the work of all those involved in making a game.

“We have decades of experience in creating video games for our gamers, and while we are open to using new technologies, we will continue to work to deliver what is unique to Nintendo, and that cannot be generated solely by technology,” concluded Shuntaro Furukawa.

At the same investors’ meeting, Nintendo President Furukawa also addressed the extended development cycles of video games, a topic that has become relevant for new generations of players accustomed to shorter waits for games compared to the past.

Shuntaro Furukawa was firm in stating that these processes are “inevitable” due to the complexity of current programming systems. Shinya Takahashi, Corporate Director and Senior Executive at Nintendo, added that hardware (consoles) also demands that these cycles be increasingly refined and thus more extensive.