Masahiro Sakurai Says Generative AI May Be Crucial for Sustaining Game Development
Masahiro Sakurai, the renowned creator of the Super Smash Bros. series and one of Nintendo’s most influential figures, has offered a candid perspective on the future of video game development, asserting that generative AI may be necessary to address the growing unsustainability of large-scale game production.
In a recent interview with ITmedia, Sakurai-san described the industry as entering an era where massive development cycles have grown too time-consuming and difficult to maintain. As project sizes and expectations balloon—especially in the AAA space—he warned that “things cannot continue the way they are” and expressed concern about the current trajectory being unsustainable without a fundamental change in development practices.
One of the key solutions he identified is the implementation of generative AI tools to streamline workflows, automate repetitive tasks, and improve overall development efficiency. While he stopped short of a blanket endorsement, Sakurai noted that studios unwilling or unable to adapt to this evolving reality might not survive in the long run.
“Only companies that can adapt to this sustainability problem can survive,” Sakurai stated, implying that generative AI could be one of the most viable paths forward.
A Shrinking Talent Pool in Japan Adds Pressure
Adding further context to the discussion, a member of the ResetERA forums, sprsk, offered insight into the challenges specific to Japan’s development ecosystem. According to their post, the domestic talent pool is shrinking, leading to a lack of developers capable of handling increasingly complex game projects. While hiring foreign developers might be seen as a solution, the language barrier remains a significant obstacle, making it harder to integrate overseas talent into Japanese studios.
In this environment, the use of generative AI could serve as a practical bridge, helping to offset resource shortages and reduce the strain on smaller or mid-size development teams.
Nintendo’s Cautious Take on AI
Sakurai’s comments follow in the wake of earlier remarks from another Nintendo legend, Shigeru Miyamoto, who last year took a more reserved stance toward the industry’s growing reliance on generative AI. Miyamoto emphasized that Nintendo often chooses to move in a direction opposite to prevailing industry trends, stating that while AI can be intriguing, Nintendo prioritizes creative approaches that do not endanger human-centered development.
Nonetheless, as the broader industry grapples with skyrocketing costs and tighter labor markets, AI is increasingly viewed as a potential pressure valve. Companies across the board—from AAA studios to indie developers—are exploring AI-powered tools for art generation, dialogue scripting, environment building, and even real-time asset optimization.
Do you believe generative AI should be embraced as a necessary evolution in game development? Or does it pose more risk than reward for creativity and jobs? Let us know what you think in the comments.
