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

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in video games is a topic that has been increasingly discussed in the gaming community. Notably, Yoko Taro, the director of the NieR series, has voiced concerns about the potential impact of AI on game creators' jobs. In a recent interview at Famitsu, translated by Automaton, Yoko Taro joined other prominent Japanese game developers known for their narrative and storytelling prowess, including Kotaro Uchikoshi (Zero Escape, AI: The Somnium Files), Kazutaka Kodaka (Danganronpa), and Jiro Ishii (428: Shibuya Scramble), to discuss the future of adventure games and the role of AI.

During the conversation, Uchikoshi expressed apprehension about the rapid evolution of AI technology, suggesting that AI-generated adventure games could become mainstream. However, he acknowledged that current AI technology falls short in delivering "outstanding writing" that matches human creativity. Uchikoshi emphasized the importance of maintaining a "human touch" in game development to stay ahead of technological advancements.

Yoko Taro echoed these concerns, stating that game creators might lose their jobs to AI in the future. He speculated that in 50 years, game creators could be viewed similarly to bards, highlighting the potential shift in the industry's landscape. When asked about AI's ability to replicate the intricate worlds and narratives of their games, both Yoko and Ishii agreed it was possible, while Kodaka offered a different perspective. He argued that although AI might mimic their work and styles, it could not replicate the essence of a creator. Kodaka likened this to how other writers could emulate David Lynch's style, but Lynch himself could evolve his style while maintaining its authenticity.

Yoko Taro also suggested using AI to generate new scenarios within adventure games, such as additional routes. However, Kodaka pointed out that this personalization could diminish the shared experience that games traditionally offer.

The discussion of AI's role in gaming is not limited to these creators. Other notable figures and companies, including Capcom, Activision, and Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa, have shared their thoughts on AI and large language models. Furukawa noted that while generative AI could be used in "creative ways," it also poses challenges related to intellectual property rights. Tech giants like Microsoft and PlayStation have also contributed to the ongoing dialogue about AI in gaming.