NZGDA Creates an AI Statement, the first step in its approach to the use of AI
The NZGDA has developed an AI Statement that sets out our industry's position on one of the most consequential issues facing game development today. This statement is the first step in a broader programme of work to tackle the many complex challenges around artificial intelligence in our sector - from the unauthorised use of creative work as training data, to the impact on livelihoods, to the need for ethical, sustainable approaches that support rather than undermine the people who make games. We know that policy and guidelines cannot keep pace with how fast this technology is moving, which is why the statement opens the door for continued conversation, research, and collective action across the New Zealand game development community.
NZGDA AI STATEMENT
As a weightless export sector that now generates over $1 Billion for the New Zealand economy, safeguarding our creative workforce is not just an artistic priority, but an economic imperative
The NZGDA acknowledges the transformative potential AI brings to our industry, alongside the complex challenges we must navigate together. These developing technologies are already changing the way we live and work. We are actively listening to our members' priorities regarding generative AI, particularly around protecting intellectual property and training data, ensuring long-term career sustainability, and addressing the environmental impacts. These are issues we take seriously in our advocacy role for the industry and as such we seek active engagement with policymakers to ensure that New Zealand’s intellectual property and copyright frameworks evolve to protect original creators, ensuring that consent and compensation remain at the heart of technological innovation.
We champion research to build AI trained on data exclusively sourced from developers who have given their explicit consent. We support the use of AI as a tool to streamline repetitive tasks, freeing creatives to focus on what they do best. Rather than replacing talent, these tools should empower our studios and developers to elevate their ambition and build better games.
Because AI is reshaping the global landscape, the NZGDA is taking an active guiding role. We are dedicated to supporting New Zealand developers in crafting amazing games today, while ensuring a secure, thriving environment for our industry’s future.
We are engaged with research efforts to find ethical, sustainable, and creativity-supporting frameworks for AI - approaches that prioritise and support transparency and protect human authorship, preserving that vital connection between the player and the creative team.