Ubisoft Unveils Its GenAI Gaming Project, Dubbed ‘Motherbrain’

Ubisoft appears to be branding its new venture into generative AI gaming as “Motherbrain,” a nod to the rogue AI from Nintendo’s iconic Metroid series that seeks to weaponize the Metroids. This information comes from a report that uncovered several trademark applications submitted by the company, all referencing the term in relation to AI initiatives.

One of the trademark applications describes “downloadable computer software using artificial intelligence (AI) for creating video games and interactive content,” while another mentions “Research, design, and development of software using artificial intelligence; Artificial intelligence as a service (AIAAS) featuring software using artificial intelligence for analyzing data and interacting with humans.”

Internally, Ubisoft is reportedly using the term Motherbrain to describe its various AI projects, although there hasn’t been any public communication about it yet. While the Metroid reference might be kept under wraps, the company has been open about its efforts to integrate large language models (LLMs) into gaming.

In 2023, Ubisoft introduced GhostWriter, an AI tool designed to assist writers for franchises like Far Cry in generating NPC dialogue. The following year, it launched the Neo NPC initiative, aimed at creating more dynamic and engaging side characters through AI. Last year, it showcased its “first playable generative AI research project,” named Teammates, which offered a demo reminiscent of a Ghost Recon game featuring AI-controlled allies that could respond in real time to player input.

“Games of tomorrow will listen, understand, and react to players far more than today, and our research gives a glimpse of what adaptive, generative play could add on top of proven game systems,” stated Ubisoft’s director of GenAI gameplay, Xavier Manzanare, during a discussion about the project.

Generative AI has also made its way into Ubisoft’s games in unexpected ways. Anno 117: Pax Romana was one of several titles in recent years that inadvertently included AI-generated errors in its artwork, which were later corrected.

Motherbrain is certainly a catchy name for a suite of AI projects—definitely more appealing than something like Slopbrain.