The Last of Us director Neil Druckmann claimed that his statements on introducing AI in game production had been misrepresented during his interview with Sony.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Druckmann claimed that the intent and context of his statements on AI "were unfortunately lost" during the post-interview editing.
(Photo : Frederic J. Brown/AFP via Getty Images)
In the supposed unedited interview transcript, The Last of Us director only noted how the growing trend of series adaptations of video games helped boost the growth in the industry.
In editing my rambling answers in my recent interview with SONY, some of my words, context, and intent were unfortunately lost. Well, here's the full long rambling answer for the final question about our future game... pic.twitter.com/tVuxX3LYJF
— Neil Druckmann (@Neil_Druckmann) May 25, 2024
The statement did not include Druckmann saying that AI "could redefine mainstream perceptions of gaming."
Druckmann's post came after a huge wave of backlash was sent against Druckmann and Naughty Dog for planning to use AI in the next The Last of Us and Uncharted games.
Also Read: Last of Us Director Hints Plans to Use AI to Push 'Boundaries of Storytelling'
Sony Leverages Towards AI in Game Development
Whether Druckmann's claims are true, one thing remains clear: Sony is pushing for more AI presence in game development and distribution.
PlayStation executive Asad Qizilbash asserted that the introduction of AI into game development could provide more "personalized experiences and meaningful stories for consumers."
The PlayStation head will prove beneficial to attract more Gen Z and Gen Alpha gamers, the company's current target demographic, to have "personalization across everything."
While being the largest consumer of AI-based services, younger generations are often the first to push back against the rampant spread of generative AI in the industry, as well.
The publication of Qizilbash's interview with Sony came at the same time as Druckmann's, depicting a clear picture of the direction the gaming giant may take in the future.
Related Article: PlayStation Exec Believes in AI's Significant Role in Game Development for Gen Z, Alpha
More Game Publishers Turn to AI
Sony is not the only major game publisher notably taking the side of AI, accepting the technology as part of its development and distribution process.
Square Enix announced earlier that it will soon leverage AI-powered tools for its future projects, including upcoming Final Fantasy titles, for development and marketing processes.
Even Steam walked back on its policies prohibiting games made with AI on its platform as more major developers advocate for AI use despite pushbacks from players, employees, and voice actors.
