The Mobile World's Surprisingly Low-Key Stance on AI

The debate surrounding generative AI in the gaming industry has sparked intense discussions, with some viewing it as a means to accelerate game development and explore novel possibilities, while others express concerns over its reliability, ethics, and potential impact on jobs. However, the mobile gaming sector has been embracing AI technology with relatively little controversy. According to Hendrik Klindworth, chairman of InnoGames, the company behind popular free-to-play games like Tribal Wars and Forge of Empires, this might be attributed to the fact that mobile gamers prioritize a great gaming experience over the development process. Klindworth emphasizes that InnoGames is 'positive about the opportunities of AI,' utilizing it to create games that would be impossible to develop otherwise, while ensuring that human involvement is always present in the process to guarantee quality and taste. The company plans to leverage AI to generate more content without increasing its workforce, particularly in live operations, such as creating new eras for games like Forge of Empires. Unlike the PC and console spaces, where backlash against AI has been significant, the mobile gaming industry has seen relatively few instances of AI-related outrage. Klindworth attributes this to the casual nature of mobile gaming, where the primary focus is on the player's experience rather than the development process. InnoGames' artists have reportedly responded positively to AI integration, viewing it as a tool that enhances their creative capabilities. The company has also been utilizing AI in engineering, with Klindworth noting that agentic coding systems have reached a level where they can significantly contribute to the development process. With the mobile gaming market becoming increasingly saturated, InnoGames faces the challenge of launching new titles without undermining its existing games. The company has found success with strategy titles like Forge of Empires and has recently released Cozy Coast, a casual game featuring a 'merge-2' puzzle mechanic. Klindworth believes that companies should strike a balance between playing to their core strengths and experimenting with new ideas. InnoGames has been aided by its inclusion in the Modern Times Group (MTG), which has facilitated knowledge sharing between the company and other MTG-owned firms like Plarium. Klindworth stresses the importance of autonomy for development teams, allowing them to find the best approach for their respective games. As the gaming industry shifts its focus towards sustainability, Klindworth acknowledges that the days of double-digit growth are behind us, and companies must now concentrate on maximizing their existing teams' potential. The role of AI in this context remains to be seen, but Klindworth is convinced that mobile firms must adapt to the challenges of a highly competitive market, eliminating inefficiencies and continually striving for improvement.