Activision Blizzard recently stirred up both excitement and concern among music game fans by teasing a potential Guitar Hero mobile game. The intrigue quickly morphed into disappointment when the initial promotional image was revealed to be AI-generated. This sparked a broader discussion about the company’s increasing reliance on artificial intelligence and what it signifies for the future of the beloved franchise.
This isn’t the first time Activision Blizzard has used generative AI for tasks that were once the domain of human artists. The two most recent Call of Duty games have incorporated AI-created cosmetic items. While the Call of Duty games are often associated with the military-industrial complex and the pursuit of profit, Guitar Hero carries different significance.
A screenshot from Guitar Hero: Aerosmith, highlighting the game’s focus on real-world musicians.
Guitar Hero was never just a game; it was a celebration of musicians. The series elevated musical artists to a near-heroic status and encouraged interaction with their work. Entire installments were dedicated to iconic bands like Aerosmith, Van Halen, and Metallica. Guitar Hero didn’t just feature music; it celebrated the artistry and the effort behind the sounds.
Moreover, Guitar Hero provided a simplified simulation of the dedication required to learn an instrument. Mastering challenging songs demanded practice and perseverance, creating a satisfying sense of accomplishment. This experience, which mirrored and streamlined the effort of learning an instrument, inspired many to pursue music.
However, the use of AI-generated imagery, which bypasses artistic investment, seems to contradict the spirit of the series. This approach minimizes the artistic process, which has raised questions about Activision’s values. Mikey Shulman, CEO of Suno Inc., said in a podcast that most people don’t enjoy putting in effort to create. This perspective may be at odds with the fundamental appeal of Guitar Hero, where the joy came from putting in the effort. Activision Blizzard, knowing the dedication that goes into gaming, should understand this.
If Activision Blizzard moves forward with an AI-centric approach and is seen as taking shortcuts, potential players may be in for a product which doesn’t follow the core values that made the franchise successful. This new approach could result in a lack of connection for the players to the music and its artists. This can lead to a potential loss of the emotional connection that made Guitar Hero such a cultural phenomenon.
