(UPD) NetEase hasn't closed its department dedicated to generative AI research and development
, by Thibaut
Update on February 4, 2026, at 5:25 p.m.
A representative from NetEase has denied Suda 51's claims regarding the closure of the company's AI division. Furthermore, NetEase has not prohibited its studios from using artificial intelligence.
"The claim that NetEase Games has shut down an AI department or prohibited its teams or studios from using AI is false. The situation described did not occur, and we have not issued any policy on this matter."
Original article
The use of AI in the creative process of video game development remains a subject of debate. Several companies have already adopted these tools, while others remain resistant. However, the case of NetEase Games is quite unique.
In an interview with Eurogamer for the release of his upcoming game ROMEO IS A DEAD MAN on February 11, 2026, Goichi Suda (Suda 51) was asked about generative artificial intelligence. He stated that he had not used this technology.
"For me personally, a lot of the AI stuff I see pops up on social media. As far as it's come, there's something about the images and videos you see that feels off. Most people have that same kind of sense, something psychological lets you know something isn't right here. Something's kinda funky.
They've been saying the day will come when AI will fool people, when you won't know something is AI. That may be true, but honestly, I don't think it has reached those levels yet. When I see something made with generative AI something in the back of my brain gets set off."
He also added that his publisher NetEase had set up a department dedicated to generative AI research and development before eventually closing it down. Suda 51 said he was unaware of the reasons behind the closure.
"As far as not using any AI for our games, it started as a Netease policy for all their companies. They originally had a section researching and developing AI-related stuff, but at one point they decided not to do that any more. They folded that section and told their studios to not use AI in games, to not use it at all.
I don't know, they never explained directly why. If I had to assume, it was probably one or both of two things. A lot of gamers out there don't like AI and having it in their games. Another thing is issues with copyright infringement. That can be tricky to get around, and clear before making something. That was probably part of it too - it would be easier to get rid of it altogether. But, again, that's my assumption. No one told me directly."
Source: eurogamer.net