Miyamoto Discusses AI's Place In Game Development

Shigeru Miyamoto spoke about AI in game creation during a press conference after receiving Japan's Order of Culture. He said people will remain essential and warned against removing human effort entirely from the process.
At a press conference following his receipt of Japan’s Order of Culture, Shigeru Miyamoto was asked how AI might affect game creation. He compared today’s shift to earlier computer advances, when technical change made a designer’s personal strengths more decisive than simply holding the title.
Miyamoto acknowledged that AI can cut down development work, but noted that hands-on labor often brings satisfaction. He warned against treating mere output as sufficient, argued that lasting work depends on personal purpose, and said Nintendo has not confirmed generative AI use in development while maintaining it cannot fully replace people.
The discussion may influence how studios, developers, and players view AI tools in creative work. Developers could face pressure to adopt efficiency gains, while artists and designers may argue for preserving human judgment and craft. Players may see changes in how games are made and valued. Because Miyamoto is a prominent figure, his comments could shape industry norms and public expectations, though concrete effects remain uncertain.