Nintendo comments on generative AI, wants to make content that “cannot be created by technology alone”

During Nintendo’s shareholders meeting last week, an attendee asked about the company’s stance on generative AI. President Shuntaro Furukawa weighed in with a few thoughts.

Generative AI seems like it’s here to stay, but it’s not without its issues and controversies. Since it’s now even being used by some companies during game development, you might be curious as to what Nintendo’s stance is.

Furukawa acknowledged that AI has a long history in the game industry. However, generative AI “may also raise issues with intellectual property rights.” Furukawa also pointed out that Nintendo wants to make content that “cannot be created by technology alone”.

Here’s the official translation regarding Nintendo’s take on generative AI:

In the game industry, AI-like technologies have long been used — for example, to control the movements of opponent characters — so I believe that game development and AI technology have always had a close relationship. Generative AI, which is becoming a big topic recently, can be used in creative ways, but we recognize that it may also raise issues with intellectual property rights.

We have decades of know-how in creating the best gaming experiences for our players. While we are open to utilizing technological developments, we will work to continue delivering value that is unique to Nintendo and cannot be created by technology alone.