PlayStation’s First-Party Studios Are Using Generative AI for QA, 3D Modeling, Animations

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In a recent presentation, Sony Group CEO Hiroki Totoki announced that PlayStation Studios is now using generative AI tools in its game development process. However, Totoki emphasized that human creativity will remain essential, stating that AI is a powerful tool to enhance—not replace—the work of artists and creators, helping to unlock new ideas and possibilities.

Hideaki Nishino, head of Sony Interactive Entertainment, recently shared how PlayStation is using artificial intelligence (AI). They’re focusing on using AI to speed up tasks that are done repeatedly, like quality assurance, creating 3D models, and making animations. Specifically, a tool called Mockingbird is being used to create realistic facial animations from performance capture data. Both Naughty Dog, the studio behind games like The Last of Us and Uncharted, and San Diego Studio, known for MLB: The Show, are already using this technology.

Nishino explained that their primary aim is to be the leading platform for both players and game creators. They believe AI can be a valuable asset in achieving this. He emphasized, echoing Totoki’s earlier comments, that the creativity, design, and emotional depth of their games will always be driven by the skills of their development teams and performers. AI is intended to enhance these talents, not take their place.

Generative AI has been a hot topic for game developers lately. Many studios are choosing not to integrate these tools into their current game development processes. Recently, Mundfish, the developer of Atomic Heart, announced they are also avoiding these tools.

Studio CEO Robert Bagratuni acknowledged the current debate surrounding AI tools. While the studio recognizes that AI and neural networks can speed up the initial stages of projects and shorten development time, they’ve completed a thorough review and decided not to incorporate these technologies into their regular production process at this time.

IO Interactive, the developer of the new James Bond game, 007: First Light, confirmed they haven’t used generative AI during development. Art director Rasmus Poulsen explained that the studio’s leadership team had discussed the possibility but ultimately decided against it.

Strauss Zelnick, CEO of Take-Two Interactive, has stated that while generative AI can be helpful in areas like game development engineering through machine learning, all the artwork for Grand Theft Auto 6 was created by human artists, not AI.

He believes that tools alone can’t create truly great entertainment. There’s no proof this has ever happened, and it’s unlikely to happen in the future. He specifically stated that generative AI isn’t being used in the development of GTA 6. Rockstar Games is meticulously building the game’s world by hand – creating each building, street, and neighborhood individually. This handcrafted approach is what sets their games apart and, in his opinion, is essential for creating high-quality entertainment.

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2026-05-08 15:41