Suda 51 Rejects AI Tools, Criticizes AI Images and Videos as “Off”

Goichi Suda, co-founder of Grasshopper Manufacture and director of the upcoming game “Romeo is a Dead Man,” has candidly expressed his reservations about generative artificial intelligence (AI) in game development. In a recent interview with Eurogamer, Suda highlighted his strong belief that existing AI-generated images and videos feel “off” and lack the emotional depth found in human-created content.

Suda 51’s Position on AI in Game Development

Suda articulated his views on AI, stating, “There’s something psychological that lets you know something isn’t right.” He acknowledged the potential for AI to eventually deceive audiences but expressed skepticism about the current capabilities of the technology. Suda believes that if AI were used to develop “Romeo,” the resulting characters would appear shallow and difficult to relate to.

Human Touch Versus AI Production

In his view, the passion and expertise of human creators significantly enhance the gaming experience. He emphasized that players can feel the effort and heart invested in a game, which AI simply cannot replicate. “The specific skills of the studio and the people we know,” he noted, contribute to the artistic quality of the game.

Netease’s AI Research Division

Suda also discussed Netease’s previous attempts to incorporate AI in game development. According to him, the company had established a research section dedicated to generative AI, which was eventually closed down. Although reasons for this decision were not formally disclosed, Suda speculated that player sentiment and copyright issues influenced the choice to abandon AI integration.

• Suda’s core concerns about AI:
  • Lack of emotional depth in AI-generated content.
  • Potential for shallow character development.
• Factors influencing Netease’s decision to discontinue AI research:
  • Negative player perception of AI in games.
  • Complications regarding copyright infringement.

Suda reiterated that the decision to avoid AI in their games aligns with a broader movement within the industry. He concluded that the future use of AI in gaming will largely depend on player demands and reactions. The development team at Grasshopper Manufacture remains committed to their traditional approach, valuing human creativity and craftsmanship in game development.