Hideo Kojima and AI: A Complex Relationship Between Innovation and Art

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Key Takeaways

1Hideo Kojima recently participated in an AI-generated advertisement, provoking outrage among his fans.

2In an interview, he expressed his doubts about AI's ability to create art while he is alive.

3Kojima nonetheless acknowledges AI as a potential tool to enhance efficiency in technological development.

💡Why it matters — Kojima's ambivalent positions on AI reflect the current tensions between technological innovation and the preservation of human creativity.

Hideo Kojima and Artificial Intelligence

Hideo Kojima, the renowned video game creator, has an ambivalent relationship with artificial intelligence (AI). Recently, he sparked controversy by participating in an AI-generated advertisement, which left his fans bewildered.

In an interview with the Washington Post, Kojima expressed his doubts about AI's ability to produce art during his lifetime. He suggested that this responsibility would fall to future generations. While he is skeptical about artistic endeavors, he views AI as a tool to enhance the efficiency of technological developments, illustrating his openness to innovation in the video game industry.

A Controversial Advertisement

A few weeks ago, an advertisement featuring Hideo Kojima made waves. Alongside director Nicolas Winding Refn, Kojima appears in a flying saucer, embarking on adventures before ending up in New York, at the heart of a Prada exhibition. This advertisement, entirely created by AI, surprised fans who believed Kojima held a stricter stance on the use of AI.

Reflections on Art and AI

In the Washington Post article published on June 6, Kojima stated that "art is life" and that he does not believe AI will be able to create art during his lifetime. He added that in 50 years or 100 years, this might change, but it does not personally interest him. He also emphasized that the use of AI should be decided by younger generations.

A Vague Position

Despite his reservations, Hideo Kojima seems to have an ambivalent attitude towards AI. He has recently shown interest in AI within the video game industry. An email from Gabe Newell, president of Valve, to Elon Musk in 2018 mentioned that Kojima had discussed the importance of AI for his game Death Stranding.

In an interview with Wired Japan in 2025, he also stated that he sees AI as an ally to "improve efficiency" in developments. In summary, his position appears to be that AI can assist with basic tasks, but that creative work should remain in human hands.

Future Projects

Kojima is currently working on two projects: OD, published by Microsoft Game Studios, and Physint, a spiritual successor to Metal Gear. It will be interesting to see how he integrates AI into the development of his future games, despite his recent statements.