Final Fantasy composer Nobuo Uematsu has taken a stance against the use of generative AI for music, stating he hasn’t used it “and probably never will”.
The technology has been increasingly used in game development – even by Square Enix itself – but has received plenty of criticism.
Now, in an interview with JASRAC Magazine about his career (thanks Automaton), Uematsu has discussed his thoughts on AI, stating it “feels more rewarding to go through the hardships of creating something myself”.
When asked about advancements in game music, Uematsu suggested composers could work on smoothly transitioning between different pieces. “Perhaps AI will be able to handle something like that well in the future,” he said.
He was then asked further about his thoughts on AI.
“I’ve never used AI and probably never will,” said Uematsu.
“I think it still feels more rewarding to go through the hardships of creating something myself. When you listen to music, the fun is also in discovering the background of the person who created it, right? AI does not have that kind of background though.
“Even when it comes to live performances, music produced by people is unstable, and everyone does it in their own unique way. And what makes it sound so satisfying are precisely those fluctuations and imperfections.”
Last year, Square Enix CEO Takashi Kiryu stated the company will be “aggressive in applying AI” and other “cutting-edge technologies”, with Foamstars producer Kosuke Okatani admitting the development team “dabbled” with using AI.
Indeed, according to a report from Japan’s Computer Entertainment Supplier’s Association (CESA), which organises the Tokyo Games Show, over half of Japanese game companies are using AI in development.
Uematsu has certainly become more vocal in recent years during interviews, stating in a 2024 interview that game music has become too similar to film and “cannot develop further” if continuing in this direction.
And despite rumours last year, he won’t be retiring from video game music work. He’s already confirmed he’ll be returning to the Final Fantasy 7 Remake series for a new theme song for the final part of the trilogy.
