Konami will not abandon AI in development, but has set an important boundary

Konami will use generative AI to optimize game development, believing that technology will not replace human ingenuity and interaction between teams.

Hideki Hayakawa, President of Konami Digital Entertainment, outlined the boundaries for AI application in the annual report for the period ending March 2026. According to him, algorithms accelerate production and cannot replace human creativity and the special “chemistry” that arises from the collaborative work of different teams.

Hayakawa reminded that the availability of game engines and user-generated content has already lowered the entry threshold into the industry, and AI has become another optimization tool.

According to CESA data presented at Tokyo Game Show 2026, generative models are used by 85.8% of Japanese developers, compared to 51% a year earlier. They primarily assist in the production process rather than creating ready-made game content.

Konami intends to implement new technologies while observing safety measures. Konami's revenue grew by 17.1% to approximately $3.12 billion, and net profit reached about $632 million. The main contribution came from flagship series, including Metal Gear Solid and Silent Hill.