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

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into the gaming industry has sparked significant discussion recently. Renowned NieR series director Yoko Taro has voiced concerns over the potential impact of AI on game development, fearing it could lead to job losses for creators. During a recent interview with Famitsu, translated by Automaton, Yoko Taro joined other prominent Japanese game developers—Kotaro Uchikoshi (creator of Zero Escape and AI: The Somnium Files), Kazutaka Kodaka (responsible for Danganronpa), and Jiro Ishii (developer of 428: Shibuya Scramble)—to explore the future of adventure games and the role of AI in their creation.

Uchikoshi expressed apprehension about the rapid advancement of AI technology, suggesting that AI-generated adventure games might soon dominate the market. While acknowledging AI's limitations in achieving exceptional writing akin to human creativity, he emphasized the importance of preserving the "human touch" to maintain creative excellence. Yoko Taro echoed similar sentiments, warning that game creators could face unemployment due to AI advancements. He humorously likened future creators to bards, implying a diminished professional status.

When questioned about AI's ability to replicate the intricate narratives and twists characteristic of their works, Yoko Taro and Ishii concurred that it was possible. Kodaka, however, argued that while AI might mimic their styles, it would struggle to embody the authentic creativity and adaptability of a true creator. Drawing a parallel with filmmaker David Lynch, Kodaka explained that even if someone wrote a script in Lynch's style, Lynch himself could evolve his approach, ensuring authenticity.

Yoko proposed using AI to generate novel scenarios, such as branching routes in adventure games. Kodaka countered, pointing out that this personalization might reduce shared experiences among players. Prominent figures in the gaming industry have long debated AI's role, with some companies like Capcom and Activision already experimenting with its applications. Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa highlighted the creative potential of AI but noted concerns regarding intellectual property rights. Microsoft and PlayStation have also chimed in on this evolving topic.