New Microsoft Gaming CEO Has 'No Tolerance For Bad AI'
Source: Slashdot
Background
In her first major interview as Microsoft’s new gaming chief, Asha Sharma outlined her vision for the Xbox platform. She stepped into the role after Phil Spencer’s retirement, bringing experience from senior positions at Instacart and Meta, as well as a background in AI.
Sharma’s Vision for Great Games
Sharma emphasized that “great games” must deliver deep emotional resonance and a distinct creative voice. She cited Campo Santo’s 2016 first‑person mystery Firewatch as an example of a game that makes players “feel something.”
Her three main commitments to the gaming community, as noted in an internal memo reported by Variety, are:
- Great games – stories that connect with players on an emotional level.
- The return of Xbox – reinforcing the brand’s identity and relevance.
- The future of play – shaping how people engage with interactive entertainment.
Approach to Community and Consistency
Sharma acknowledges entering the gaming space as an “outsider” and stresses the importance of being grounded in community feedback. She describes herself as a “platform builder” whose goal is to earn the trust of players and developers through consistent, long‑term support.
She referenced Matthew Ball’s State of Video Gaming in 2026 report, noting that the industry is undergoing a “transformation” that must protect core values while staying open‑minded about the future.
Stance on AI in Game Development
Given her AI background, Sharma was asked about the role of generative AI in creating games. Her position is straightforward:
“I have no tolerance for bad AI. AI has long been part of gaming and will continue to be, but great stories are created by humans.”
She argues that AI can serve as a growth engine for the industry, provided it enhances rather than detracts from human‑crafted storytelling.
Read more of this story at Slashdot.