Yoko Taro Fears AI Will Jobless Game Creators, Reducing Them to 'Bards'

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in video games has become a hot topic recently, with prominent figures like NieR series director Yoko Taro voicing concerns about its potential impact on the industry. In a thought-provoking interview at Famitsu, translated by Automaton, a panel of renowned Japanese game developers, including Yoko Taro, Kotaro Uchikoshi (known for Zero Escape and AI: The Somnium Files), Kazutaka Kodaka (Danganronpa), and Jiro Ishii (428: Shibuya Scramble), delved into the future of game creation and the role of AI.

When asked about the future of adventure games, both Yoko Taro and Kotaro Uchikoshi shared their perspectives on AI. Uchikoshi expressed apprehension about the rapid evolution of AI technology, suggesting that AI-generated adventure games could soon become mainstream. However, he emphasized that current AI struggles to match the "outstanding writing" and human creativity essential for compelling narratives. He stressed the importance of maintaining a "human touch" to differentiate from AI-driven content.

Yoko Taro echoed these concerns, warning that AI could lead to job losses for game creators. He speculated that in 50 years, game creators might be relegated to the status of bards, a profession once central to storytelling but now largely obsolete.

The discussion also touched on whether AI could replicate the intricate worlds and narratives of their games. Yoko Taro and Jiro Ishii agreed that AI could potentially imitate their work, but Kazutaka Kodaka argued that AI lacks the ability to truly behave like a creator. He likened this to how other writers might mimic David Lynch's style, but Lynch himself could evolve his style while retaining its authenticity.

Yoko Taro proposed using AI to generate new scenarios, such as alternative routes in adventure games. However, Kodaka pointed out that this personalization could diminish the shared experience that games often provide.

The conversation around AI in gaming extends beyond this panel. Industry giants like Capcom, Activision, Microsoft, and PlayStation have been exploring AI's potential. Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa has acknowledged the creative possibilities of generative AI but also highlighted the challenges it poses regarding intellectual property rights.