Square Enix Plans “Aggressive” Use of AI, Says President
According to the annual letter from Square Enix President Takashi Kiryu, the game publisher is planning to make extensive use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the coming year and beyond. Kiryu believes that generative AI has the potential to not only transform the company’s creative process but also change how programming is done. Square Enix aims to shift towards digital platforms as gamers increasingly move away from physical media. The company plans to apply AI to enhance game development productivity and marketing efforts. In the long term, AI may be used to create new forms of content for Square Enix.
AI Takes Center Stage, but Crypto Gaming Isn’t Forgotten
While Square Enix focuses on AI, it doesn’t mean they are abandoning their efforts in crypto gaming or “Web3.” Previous letters from the company president have emphasized these areas. In 2023, Square Enix prioritized blockchain, cloud gaming, and AI, leading to potential changes in the organizational structure. However, generative AI remains a controversial topic in the gaming industry. Some see its potential for improving games quickly, while others worry about job security. Although blockchain isn’t mentioned in this year’s letter, it’s possible that AI will be Square Enix’s primary focus for emerging technologies in 2024.
Square Enix’s NFT Story Art Game
In December, Square Enix released “Symbiogenesis,” its first original Ethereum story art game that includes optional NFTs. The game offers quests within a single main storyline in a 2D world. The NFT character avatars have already traded for thousands of dollars, with unique names like “Condiment” and “Wastebasket.” The Ethereum NFT collection associated with the game has seen a total trading volume of approximately 87 ETH ($204,000) so far. Square Enix has not provided any immediate response to Decrypt’s request for comment.
Hot Take: Square Enix Puts AI at the Forefront, but What About Crypto Gaming?
Square Enix’s President Takashi Kiryu’s annual letter reveals the company’s plans to heavily utilize artificial intelligence (AI) in the future. While AI takes center stage, it remains unclear whether Square Enix will continue to prioritize crypto gaming and “Web3” efforts. The controversy surrounding generative AI in the gaming industry adds another layer of complexity to this development. Nevertheless, Square Enix’s release of its NFT story art game demonstrates their interest in exploring innovative technologies. As 2024 unfolds, it will be interesting to see how Square Enix balances its focus on AI with its involvement in the crypto gaming space.
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