Ubisoft’s Generative AI Project ‘Motherbrain’ Explored Through Recent Trademarks
- Ubisoft has internally named its generative AI initiative ‘Motherbrain’.
- Recent trademark applications outline various AI applications for game development.
- The project follows significant restructurings including job cuts and studio closures.
Ubisoft has reportedly designated its latest generative AI initiative as ‘Motherbrain,’ a name reminiscent of the antagonist supercomputer in Nintendo’s Metroid series. This information is based on recent trademark filings made by the publisher, known for franchises like Assassin’s Creed and Far Cry.
Initial reports from The Game File and later highlighted by Kotaku indicate that several recent trademark applications utilize the Motherbrain name to address Ubisoft’s various generative AI strategies.
Among the trademarks filed, one describes “downloadable computer software using artificial intelligence (AI) for creating video games and interactive content.” Another application specifies an AI service aimed at “analyzing data and interacting with humans,” along with the research and design of “software using artificial intelligence.”
Currently, Ubisoft has not publicly acknowledged the Motherbrain initiative; the term appears to be used solely within the company. However, Ubisoft has been vocal about its interest in generative AI’s potential applications in game development.
Last year, Ubisoft introduced a generative AI tool named Ghostwriter, designed to assist game developers in creating background dialogue for non-playable characters (NPCs). Additionally, CEO Yves Guillemot labeled the introduction of generative AI as a “revolution” comparable to the transition from 2D to 3D games. Recently, Ubisoft stated it was “accelerating” its investment in Teammates, described as the publisher’s “first playable generative AI experience.”
These developments come amid ongoing restructuring efforts at Ubisoft, which involved the closure of two studios, the cancellation of six projects, and layoffs of developers earlier this year. Additionally, the company previously shut down two more studios and restructured a third, resulting in approximately 380 job cuts.
News Courtesy of Eurogamer
