The use of artificial intelligence (AI) in games has become a hot topic recently, with prominent figures like NieR series director Yoko Taro voicing concerns about its impact on game creators' jobs. In a recent interview at Famitsu, translated by Automaton, a group of renowned Japanese game developers, including Yoko Taro, Kotaro Uchikoshi (Zero Escape, AI: The Somnium Files), Kazutaka Kodaka (Danganronpa), and Jiro Ishii (428: Shibuya Scramble), delved into the future of adventure games and the role of AI.

Yoko Taro echoed these concerns, stating, "I, too, believe that game creators may lose their jobs because of AI. There’s a chance that in 50 years, game creators will be treated like bards." This reflects a fear that AI could displace human creatives in the gaming industry.

When discussing whether AI could replicate the intricate worlds and narratives of their games, Yoko and Ishii agreed it was possible. However, Kodaka argued that while AI might imitate their styles, it couldn't truly behave like a creator. He compared this to how others might write in David Lynch's style, but only Lynch could authentically evolve his style while maintaining its unique essence.

Yoko proposed using AI to generate new scenarios, such as alternative routes in adventure games. Kodaka countered that such personalization could diminish the shared experience that games traditionally offer.

The conversation around AI in gaming extends beyond these creators. Companies like Capcom and Activision have experimented with AI, while Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa acknowledged its creative potential but highlighted concerns about intellectual property rights. Microsoft and PlayStation have also contributed to the ongoing dialogue about AI's role in the future of gaming.