Masahiro Sakurai, lead developer of the Super Smash Bros. series, recently addressed the difficulties facing large-scale game development and discussed the potential role of generative AI in the industry.
In a Yahoo Japan interview that gained attention internationally, Sakurai expressed concerns about the sustainability of current AAA game development models. He noted that the extensive time and labor required to produce major titles may not be feasible in the long run.
While some reports initially suggested Sakurai endorsed generative AI as a solution, closer examination reveals a more nuanced stance. He described AI as one of the limited options for improving efficiency amid rising development demands, rather than as a definitive fix.
“I feel that we can’t continue like this, but at the moment, the only effective solution I can think of is generative AI. We have to change the scheme to improve work efficiency,” Sakurai said, according to a machine-translated excerpt.
Commentators have clarified that Sakurai’s remarks reflect uncertainty about the future of AAA game production rather than enthusiastic support for AI-generated content. The interview’s title in Japanese, meaning “no one knows what the future holds,” underscores this uncertainty.
Sakurai, known for his deep experience in game development and his educational series Masahiro Sakurai on Creating Games, is currently working on Kirby Air Riders for the upcoming Switch 2 console. The game, a sequel to the 2003 GameCube title Kirby Air Ride, is expected to release in 2025.