Meta is set to rejuvenate its project by integrating generative artificial intelligence (AI) into virtual, augmented, and mixed reality games. This move aims to revive the company’s metaverse strategy, which has recently faced challenges, declining user interest, and operational losses. According to job postings, Meta is seeking experts to develop games utilizing generative AI. These games will feature non-deterministic algorithms, ensuring that the same storyline is presented in new variations each time they are played, offering a fresh experience on every launch.
The main focus will be on the Horizon platform—a suite of games, applications, and tools for building Meta’s metaverse. However, the company does not rule out the possibility of extending these technologies to other platforms, including smartphones and PCs. Furthermore, Meta aims to collaborate with other companies to create generative AI-based tools to accelerate game production.
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg is personally invested in developing games for the Quest headsets, leading to increased investments in metaverse gaming projects. However, he cautioned that it will take years before the company can monetize generative AI, hinting that these investments will not quickly improve the financial situation of Reality Labs, Meta’s division responsible for creating virtual and augmented reality hardware and software.
Andrew Bosworth, Meta’s Chief Technology Officer and head of Reality Labs, emphasizes the potential of generative AI in creating metaverse content. He believes these tools can level the playing field, providing small developer teams with capabilities comparable to those of large studios. Despite ambitious plans, Meta has struggled to attract users to its mixed reality platform Horizon, and the Reality Labs division continues to incur significant losses.
The integration of generative AI into the gaming industry has sparked mixed reactions. Some developers fear for their jobs, while companies like Inworld and Artificial Agency are already using this technology to create more dynamic game dialogues and narratives. Meta, meanwhile, continues to invest billions of dollars in developing generative AI, forming a new team focused on creating products using this technology, including AI-generated advertising.
In summary, Meta’s push to incorporate generative AI into its gaming and metaverse initiatives marks a significant step in its ongoing efforts to innovate and attract users. While challenges remain, the company’s commitment to AI-driven content creation holds promise for the future of immersive experiences.