Following the closure of a stellar AAA studio with Halo and God of War veterans, streaming giant Netflix has confirmed that it is investing in generative artificial intelligence.
Image source: Virtasant
Netflix’s former head of gaming Mike Verdu has finally revealed which department “at the forefront of gaming innovation” he joined – he became vice president of generative AI for games.
«This transformative technology will accelerate development speed and open up truly new gaming experiences that will surprise, delight and inspire gamers,” Verdu wrote on LinkedIn.
While many people are wary of generative AI, Verdu says he sees the technology’s potential: “Yes, we will have to adapt and change, but when have we as an industry failed to do that?”
Image source: Netflix
Meanwhile, The Verge reports that Netflix is removing most interactive films and shows from its catalog. From December 1, out of 24 projects, only four will remain:
- Black Mirror: Bandersnatch;
- Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt: Kimmy vs. the Reverend;
- Ranveer vs. Wild with Bear Grylls;
- You vs. Wild.
«The technology has served its purpose and is now holding us back from focusing our technology efforts on other areas,” Netflix said. The company abandoned production of interactive shows last December.
Netflix included games in its subscription service in fall 2021 and continues to expand its library of mobile projects. Meanwhile, cloud game streaming, which reached the United States last fall, still remains in beta.