In an exclusive BBC interview, Hermen Hulst, PlayStation’s head of game studios, emphasized the continued importance of human creativity in game design.
“I suspect there will be a dual demand in gaming: one for AI-driven innovative experiences and another for handcrafted, thoughtful content,” Hulst told the BBC.
The comments come as the gaming industry navigates significant technological shifts and workforce challenges. PlayStation is celebrating its console’s 30th anniversary amid a complex landscape of technological innovation and economic uncertainty.
AI’s potential in game development remains both promising and contentious. The technology could automate routine development tasks—potentially streamlining production processes—while raising concerns about potential job displacement among game developers and voice actors.
Sony’s leadership appears committed to a balanced approach. Hulst highlighted the need to “strike the right balance between leveraging AI and preserving the human touch.”
The gaming industry continues to experience workforce volatility, with significant job reductions following the pandemic-era boom. AI’s role in this transformation remains a critical point of discussion among technology and entertainment executives.