Sony outlines the use of AI tools by first-party PlayStation studios in the development process

Sony plans to integrate artificial intelligence more deeply across its divisions, including game creation, as part of its latest strategy.

In a corporate strategy presentation that coincided with the release of its most recent financial results, Sony's President and CEO, Hiroki Totoki, noted, "AI enables us to embark on innovative projects that were once deemed too challenging due to financial and time constraints."

Totoki emphasized that while AI serves as a strong tool, it complements rather than replaces artistic talent, bolstering human creativity and expanding possibilities.

Sony Interactive Entertainment's CEO and President Hideaki Nishino mentioned the use of Mockingbird by teams such as Naughty Dog and San Diego Studio, which creates facial models using performance capture data. This was implemented in games like Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered.

Nishino assured that Mockingbird enhances data processing from live captures rather than substituting the performers, allowing animation that once took hours to be completed almost instantaneously.

AI is also employed in Sony's main studios for hair animation, a complex task due to the large number of strands needed. Nishino explained that by recording real hairstyles and employing an AI tool, a 3D model is generated with accurate strand representation.

AI's integration promotes efficiency in production and enhances game discovery for targeted audiences. Nishino highlighted AI's role in reducing manual labor, freeing teams to focus on enriching worlds and gameplay experiences for players.

He clarified the creative vision and emotional essence of games will always hinge on the innate talent of studios and performers, with AI augmenting rather than replacing these capabilities.

Furthermore, AI has been utilized in Gran Turismo through an AI-driven racing agent named Sophy. This innovation has enabled NPCs to develop unique personalities, creating a dynamic and immersive world for players.

Nishino also pointed to the PlayStation 5 Pro's updated PSSR feature, which employs machine learning to enrich image quality, facilitating 4K visuals with optimal frame rates.

Sony's continued investment in AI and machine learning aims to enhance visual fidelity, encouraging creativity in studios and refining the PlayStation platform. AI's potential to revolutionize entertainment is being harnessed for a superior experience for both players and developers.

With a vast user base, extensive IP catalog, and an integrated ecosystem, AI empowers Sony to deliver state-of-the-art entertainment experiences.