AI can ‘revolutionize’ gaming, but it will always require the "human touch," says PlayStation boss

by Danny Craig · 12/4/24, 3:01 PM
AI can ‘revolutionize’ gaming, but it will always require the "human touch," says PlayStation boss
Sony

Hermen Hulst, co-CEO of Sony Interactive Entertainment, has expressed his views on the use of AI in game development, stating that while he believes it has the potential to "revolutionize" gaming, creating games will always require human input.

The details:

  • Speaking with the BBC, Hulst acknowledged that, while more studios are starting to use AI technology for game development, the process will still require input from humans to produce high-quality games. “I suspect there will be a dual demand in gaming: one for AI-driven innovative experiences and another for handcrafted, thoughtful content,” Hulst said. “Striking the right balance between leveraging AI and preserving the human touch will be crucial.”

  • According to a survey conducted by market research firm CIST earlier this year, 62% of game studios already incorporate AI into their development workflows. The technology is primarily used to create quick prototypes, placeholder assets, and basic concepts, with PlayStation head of product Asad Qizilbash previously claiming that it will lead to "more personalized experiences and meaningful stories for consumers" in the future.

  • AI has grown in popularity across multiple industries as a result of rapid advancements in its overall ability to be used for productivity. Major gaming companies, including EA, Ubisoft, Embracer Group, and even Microsoft, have publicly shared details regarding how AI is used in their internal processes. Xbox even went as far as announcing a multi-year partnership with Inworld, a company that previously created an AI-powered Grand Theft Auto V mod that allows players to chat with NPCs, suggesting similar tech could appear in its first-party titles.

  • Although most companies have discovered that AI has increased the efficiency of their workflows, there is concern that human jobs will be impacted, especially after years of mass layoffs. Sectors such as customer service and art have been particularly hard hit by the AI boom, with complex chatbots and art generators becoming more accurate and human-like over time.

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