Masahiro Sakurai on AI-based games: 'Unprofitable projects' and the rise of clones

• Sakurai believes that AI-based games will be unprofitable
• He emphasizes the importance of human creativity
• The boom of clones and mods continues in the gaming industry

Masahiro Sakurai on the future of AI-based games

The creator of the Super Smash Bros series, Masahiro Sakurai, shared his thoughts on the boom of games created with the help of artificial intelligence. In an interview, he noted that while the number of games on the Steam platform has increased from 275 to 19,000 since 2010, he believes that most of them will be 'unprofitable projects.' Sakurai thinks that such games will not be able to create sustainable demand and will merely be repetitions of already existing concepts.

Sakurai emphasized that AI-generated games often represent low-quality products that cannot compete with works created by humans. He cited simple conceptual games, such as 'Finding a needle in a haystack,' which are easily reproduced by AI. In his opinion, such games lack originality and merely repeat already known mechanics.

According to Sakai, artificial intelligence is not capable of creating something new, but only iterations based on already existing ideas. He noted that even if AI could create something similar to the works of well-known developers like Fumito Ueda, it would not be true art. Sakai believes that unique style and creativity can only be achieved by humans.

Criticism of games created by AI

In recent weeks, there has been a rise in the popularity of AI-based mods in the gaming industry. Players are using this technology to port games to web browsers, combine different games, and create 'new' projects based on existing ones. However, Sakai warns against excessive reliance on AI in game development, emphasizing that it could lead to a decline in quality and originality.

Sakai also noted that in the context of mass production and low-quality goods, the importance of human creativity increases. He believes that developers who can create unique and original games will become increasingly significant in the future. This is especially relevant in light of current trends in the gaming industry, where there are cutbacks and a shift towards AI-oriented production models.

Despite the growing popularity of AI-based games, Sakai remains optimistic about the future of original games. He believes that true works of art created by humans will continue to attract players' attention and remain in demand. This underscores the importance of preserving creativity and individuality in the gaming industry.

The rise of clones and mods in the gaming industry

Sakai also mentioned his recent experience when he had to decline the Game Designer Award at the Japan Game Awards due to the lack of a successor. This event highlights the challenging times many developers face in the industry and the need to seek new talent to continue the tradition of creating quality games.

In an environment where large companies like Epic Games are shifting to AI-driven production models, it is important to remember the significance of human creativity. Sakai urges developers not to forget their roots and to continue creating unique and original games that can inspire players.

Sakai also noted that in the future we may see more games that explore new ideas and concepts, rather than just repeating already known mechanics. This could lead to the emergence of new genres and formats that will be interesting to players and allow them to have new experiences from games.

The future of original games and human creativity

In conclusion, Sakai emphasizes that while technology continues to evolve, human creativity will remain an important aspect of the gaming industry. He believes that developers who can create unique and original games will have an advantage in the future, especially in the face of growing competition and mass production.

Thus, Sakai's opinion on the future of AI-based games and the importance of originality highlights the need to preserve creativity in the gaming industry. Games created with the help of AI may be interesting, but they cannot replace true works of art created by humans.

Ultimately, the future of the gaming industry depends on developers' ability to find a balance between using technology and preserving human creativity. Sakai calls for developers to continue creating unique and original games that will inspire players and remain in demand in the future.

Source: IGN