Voices of VR

#1630: Keiichi Matsuda on Metaphors for AI Agents in XR User Experience: From Omniscient Gods to Animistic Familiars

Aug 2, 2025
Guest
Keiichi Matsuda
In this engaging discussion, Keiichi Matsuda, a forward-thinking designer and director of Liquid City, explores the evolution of AI interactions. He challenges the notion of a singular 'AI God,' advocating instead for a decentralized approach that treats AI as relatable companions. Matsuda introduces his concept of 'parabrains' for intuitive user experiences, emphasizing the importance of agency and trust. He also reflects on immersive technologies, their architectural impact, and the ethical responsibilities that come with innovative AI applications.
Ask episode
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
INSIGHT

AI as Animistic Spirits

  • Keiichi Matsuda proposes AI agents as numerous, limited, and fallible spirits rather than omnipotent gods.
  • This polytheistic model enables relationships and agency, contrasting monolithic, all-knowing AI systems.
ANECDOTE

WISP: AI Companion & RPG

  • Keiichi created WISP as a virtual AI companion with a unique perspective to teach and assist users over time.
  • WISP World uses AR to combine AI and local context for immersive gameplay interacting with tiny spirits in real-world spaces.
ADVICE

Design AI as 'Smart Puppy'

  • Design AI agents with modest abilities like "be as smart as a puppy" for better user mental models.
  • This fosters satisfying, enjoyable interactions rather than frustration from unmet godlike AI expectations.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Get the app