Sakurai criticizes AI-based games

Masahiro Sakurai, the creator of Super Smash Bros, called AI-based games "non-revenue-generating titles" in an interview with Denfaminico Gamer. He argued that these games often rely on copying existing mechanics rather than creating original content.

Rise of AI-generated game clones

Sakurai noted a surge in clones and mods, especially as AI technology becomes more accessible. He pointed out that many AI-generated games are simple puzzle titles, like the viral Needle in a Haystack Simulator, which are easy to reproduce.

Steam's growth and AI's role

The number of games on Steam has grown dramatically since 2010, from 275 to 19,000 titles. Sakurai acknowledged this trend would continue, largely driven by AI, but warned that most of these new titles would not be profitable.

AI's limitations in originality

Sakurai suggested AI could create games similar to those of Fumito Ueda, such as ICO or Shadow of the Colossus. However, he argued that Ueda’s future creative direction, which involves uncharted artistic styles, can only be achieved by humans.

Human creativity remains vital

Sakurai emphasized that AI fundamentally works with existing ideas and cannot generate something entirely new. He concluded that creators like Ueda, who develop their own unique styles, will be increasingly important in an era of mass production and low-quality games.

AI mods and industry changes

AI-based mods are becoming popular in the gaming world, with players using them to port games to web browsers, merge different games, and create "new" games from existing properties. Meanwhile, layoffs are rising, and companies like Epic are shifting toward AI-focused production models.

Sakurai's humanistic vision

Sakurai favors human-created games that emphasize originality and depth. His perspective offers an optimistic view in a rapidly changing industry. Recently, he had to step down from his role as best game designer at the Japan Game Awards after sixteen years due to the difficulty of finding a successor.