“AI and immersive technologies will drive the next big disruption, creating hyper-personalized gaming experiences”: Khaja Vali Shaik

The gaming and animation industries have undergone tremendous transformation in recent years, driven by rapid technological advancements and evolving consumer preferences. The integration of technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), Virtual Reality (VR), and Augmented Reality (AR) has revolutionized how games are developed and consumed, creating more immersive and personalized experiences. The rise of cross-platform gaming and cloud-based services has further expanded the accessibility of games, blurring the lines between devices and creating new opportunities for engagement.

As the gaming industry becomes more competitive globally, especially with strong competition from hubs like Japan, South Korea, and Hollywood, companies must stay ahead through constant innovation, the development of original intellectual property (IP), and strong partnerships within the ecosystem. This has also highlighted the growing skills gap in the industry, emphasizing the importance of specialized education and training programs that prepare the next generation of talent.

At the intersection of gaming and visual effects (VFX), we see the convergence of workflows that enhance both industries, accelerating the pace of content production and driving the future of interactive entertainment. Issues such as ethical monetization, diversity in representation, and the role of independent creators are becoming more critical as the industry moves forward.

To explore these dynamics and the future of gaming, Education Post's Prabhav Anand interviewed Khaja Vali Shaik, Chief Operating Officer at AVGCI, who shares his insights on the evolution of the gaming industry and the trends shaping its future.

Q. How has the gaming industry evolved in terms of technology and consumer engagement over the past decade, and where do you see the next major disruption coming from?

Over the past decade, the gaming industry has evolved rapidly, with advancements in technology and increasing consumer engagement. We've seen the shift from traditional console gaming to mobile and cloud gaming, which offers flexibility and accessibility. New technologies such as Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and block chain are reshaping the way consumers engage with gaming. The next major disruption will likely come from the intersection of AI and immersive technologies, enabling games to provide hyper-personalized experiences through adaptive storylines and interactive environments. We also anticipate further growth in cross-platform gaming and the rise of metaverse ecosystems, creating entirely new ways for players to connect and engage.

Q. Artificial intelligence and machine learning are becoming integral to gaming and animation. How do you see these technologies reshaping the creative process, and do you believe AI will ever fully replace human creativity?

AI and machine learning are already transforming the creative process by streamlining workflows, automating repetitive tasks, and enabling real-time rendering in both gaming and animation. AI-generated assets, character movements, and dynamic environments have enhanced the efficiency of development. However, AI will not replace human creativity but augment it. While AI can simulate and assist, it lacks the unique emotional depth and cultural context that human creators bring. AI will serve as a powerful tool, helping creators to focus on storytelling, innovation, and emotional engagement, which are core aspects of the creative process.

Q. Cross-platform gaming and streaming services like cloud gaming are gaining momentum. What are the biggest challenges in delivering a seamless multi-platform experience for players, and how can the industry overcome them?

Delivering a seamless multi-platform experience involves overcoming technical challenges like latency, data synchronization, and performance optimization across devices. Players expect consistent gameplay across PCs, consoles, and mobile devices, which requires sophisticated cloud infrastructure and efficient data management. To address these challenges, the industry must invest in 5G technology, cloud infrastructure, and scalable backend services. Standardizing development tools and engines that work across platforms will further streamline the process, allowing for smoother cross-device experiences.

Q. The gaming and VFX industries are fiercely competitive on a global scale. What strategies do you believe are crucial for companies to stay ahead, especially with competition from major hubs like Japan, South Korea, and Hollywood?

To stay competitive globally, companies must focus on innovation, talent development, and strong partnerships. Leveraging emerging technologies like real-time rendering, AI-powered tools, and cloud-based workflows will keep companies at the cutting edge. It's also crucial to develop original intellectual property (IP) that resonates with global audiences. Building collaborative ecosystems where studios, developers, and educational institutions work closely is vital for cultivating talent and fostering innovation. Additionally, India’s strategic advantage of cost-effective and high-quality production will help maintain its global competitiveness​​.

Q. Given the demand for specialized skills in gaming, animation, and VFX, how does the industry address the growing skills gap, and what role should education and training programs play in preparing the next generation of talent?

The growing skills gap is a significant challenge in the AVGC sector. To address this, we need more comprehensive education and training programs that integrate cutting-edge technology and industry-standard practices. Collaborating with educational institutions to create specialized courses in gaming, animation, and VFX is crucial. Apprenticeships, internships, and mentorship programs will play a key role in bridging this gap. Government support through skill development initiatives and policies, like Telangana's IMAGE policy, which focuses on infrastructure and talent development, will be instrumental in preparing the next generation of professionals.

Q. Monetization in gaming has shifted with the rise of microtransactions, freemium models, and downloadable content (DLC). How do you see these revenue models evolving, and what ethical considerations should companies keep in mind to avoid exploitation of players?

The rise of microtransactions, freemium models, and DLC has created new revenue streams for gaming companies. As these models evolve, companies should aim for transparency and fair pricing. Ethical considerations include ensuring that these models do not exploit players, particularly younger audiences. It's essential to design systems that reward skill rather than encouraging players to spend excessively. Offering a balance between paid and earned rewards, along with parental controls, will help maintain player trust and engagement without crossing ethical boundaries.

Q. VFX has become increasingly crucial to creating immersive gaming experiences. How do you see the convergence of VFX and gaming workflows shaping the future of both industries?

The convergence of VFX and gaming workflows is accelerating with real-time technologies like Unreal Engine and Unity. These platforms are breaking down the traditional silos between film production and game development, allowing for seamless cross-industry collaboration. As VFX and gaming techniques continue to merge, we’ll see faster production cycles, more interactive content, and higher visual quality across both industries. This convergence is poised to create new job opportunities and push the boundaries of storytelling​​.

Q. Diversity and representation in both gaming characters and development teams are ongoing challenges in the industry. How important is it for gaming and animation to embrace inclusivity, and what steps can be taken to create more diverse and representative content?

Embracing diversity is critical to the industry's growth. A more inclusive approach to game development ensures that a wider array of voices, cultures, and experiences are reflected in the content. This not only makes games more relatable to diverse audiences but also enriches the storytelling process. Companies should actively recruit from diverse backgrounds and provide opportunities for underrepresented groups. Additionally, fostering a workplace culture of inclusion and ensuring diverse characters and narratives in games will help the industry create more authentic and globally resonant content​.

Q. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are increasingly integrated into gaming and animation. How close are we to seeing VR and AR become mainstream, and what technological barriers still need to be addressed?

While VR and AR have made significant strides, there are still technological barriers to overcome before they can be considered mainstream. The primary challenges include hardware affordability, accessibility, and content variety. Once devices become more affordable and mobile-friendly, and content creation expands to include more diverse and engaging experiences, we can expect broader adoption. Advancements in haptic feedback, motion tracking, and 5G will further support the growth of these technologies​​.

Q. The rise of independent studios and creators in gaming and animation has democratized content creation. How do you view the indie scene's role in pushing innovation, and what challenges do indie creators face in breaking into a crowded market?

The indie scene plays a critical role in pushing innovation by experimenting with unconventional storytelling, mechanics, and art styles. These creators often drive trends that larger studios later adopt. However, indie creators face significant challenges, including limited funding, market visibility, and access to distribution platforms. Government support in the form of grants, incubators, and platforms like TVAGA's IndiaJoy can help address these challenges, providing indie studios with the resources and exposure they need to thrive.