LogInStrauss Zelnick discusses the rise of generative AI, and how it can make a game even better, and shares why he's resistant to adapting their franchises.
Image credit: Rockstar North, GTA 5
In a recent interview with Inverse, Take-Two Interactive's CEO Strauss Zelnick shared some interesting thoughts on the rise of generative AI, how it can help build a better game, and some insights about the adaptation of highly acclaimed games that the company possesses.
During an interview discussion at the Paley International Council Summit on November 7, Zelnick expressed optimism about the benefits of AI in the video game industry. However, he acknowledged that while it may offer improvements, he didn't anticipate it to significantly speed up development or reduce costs. Zelnick believes that the competitive push to adopt AI will require Take-Two to invest heavily in developing its own capabilities.
"It may be better, but it almost certainly will not be faster and cheaper," Zelnick shared.
Despite the potential investment required, Zelnick sees promising opportunities. In particular, he highlighted the potential of generative AI in enhancing non-player characters. By leveraging this technology, games could introduce more diverse dialogue trees, creating an immersive experience that entices players to continuously engage with the game. I wonder if they used AI in the upcoming GTA 6, but for now, Zelnick hasn't shared any information on that.
"Everyone's working on that. You're a playable character, you're interacting with the non-playable character. That interaction is currently scripted. And the non-playable characters are generally not very interesting. You could imagine all the NPCs becoming really interesting and fun," Zelnick said.
Image credit: Rockstar Games, Red Dead Redemption 2
Another topic that was touched upon in the discussion was adapting Take-Two's franchises, such as Grand Theft Auto, Red Dead Redemption, and others. Zelnick provided an explanation for his hesitance towards the idea, viewing it as a potentially risky move. He voiced concerns that if Take-Two were to venture into film licensing and those movies were to be unsuccessful, it could negatively impact their established franchises. As a result, the company is primarily focusing on its core gaming endeavors, prioritizing a steadfast commitment to the game industry.
"Make no mistake about it. It is a very risky move, and I'm pretty risk averse with regard to our intellectual property" he shared.
Speaking of game adaptations, Nintendo recently shared an official letter announcing the production of a live-action Legend of Zelda movie, which fans have been waiting for and talking about for a long time.
Some more news on Take-Two, after Rockstar Games announced that there would be a trailer for GTA 6 in early December, shares of Take-Two surged by up to 5.21% during premarket trading.
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