AI to 'transform' gaming but costly, Ubisoft CEO tells

Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot believes that generative AI will profoundly change how video games are created and played. He describes it as "something that will transform our games" and sees it as a way to make open-world games like Ubisoft's "Assassin's Creed" franchise feel even "more alive." With generative AI, Guillemot envisions a gaming experience where players can interact with non-playing characters in a more immersive way, such as speaking with them and developing relationships. However, he also acknowledges the capital costs associated with generative AI as a significant hurdle for the industry due to the heavy demand on computer processing and resources needed to train the models.

Guillemot sees several benefits in device makers like Apple enhancing their hardware with more powerful chips for gaming. These benefits include:

1. More interactive and alive open-world games: With the integration of generative AI (Gen AI) and more powerful chips, open-world games like Ubisoft's "Assassin's Creed" franchise can become more immersive and interactive. This can be achieved by making the game world feel more alive, where non-playing characters can engage in conversations and have relationships with the players.

2. Reduced reliance on cloud computing: Powerful chips can help in taking some of the computing needs out of the cloud and onto the device itself. This can potentially reduce the cost and latency issues associated with cloud gaming, making the gaming experience smoother and more accessible for users.

3. Enhanced AI capabilities in games: Incorporating AI chips into devices like the iPhone or laptops can bring more intelligence into video games. This can lead to more realistic and dynamic gameplay experiences, as well as improved AI-driven interactions within the game world.

4. Fostering innovation in the gaming industry: As cloud gaming and more powerful hardware continue to gain traction, there is a potential for the gaming industry to experience a new wave of innovation. This can lead to the emergence of new game titles and experiences that were previously not possible due to technological limitations.

In summary, Guillemot sees the integration of more powerful chips in devices as a way to enhance gaming experiences, reduce reliance on cloud computing, improve AI capabilities in games, and foster innovation in the gaming industry.