Former Disney and Pandora execs launch Operative Games to create immersive experiences with AI

AI-based interactive storytelling company Operative Games has launched to create new immersive experiences.

As reported by VentureBeat, the company focuses on creating experiences where players form emotional connections with lifelike AI characters while solving problems and exploring complex narratives.

Operative Games was founded by former Disney R&D head Jon Snoddy, Pandora founding CEO Jon Kraft, and game industry veteran Pegi Bryant with backing from 1AM Gaming, Samsung Next, and LongJourney.vc. 

The company said its proprietary Story Engine makes game characters feel like they have their own stories while letting players fully control their choices and actions. Players can call, text, or video chat with characters using a standard phone. 

Crafting “story-driven worlds" 

“We’re not just making games – we’re creating relationships, and in some sense – real memories and shared experiences,” said Operative Games CEO Jon Snoddy. 

“Our technology enables characters who understand context and form genuine emotional bonds with players. This marks the beginning of truly personalized storytelling.”

He added: “We’ve crossed a line here. With the emerging ability to bring truly believable characters to life and hang out with them in story-driven worlds.”

1AM Gaming managing partner Gregory Milken commented: “What sets Operative Games apart is their unique ability to create characters that feel genuinely alive."

“The combination of their technological innovation and their demonstrated ability to turn complex emerging technologies into popular entertainment forms positions them to define an entirely new category of interactive entertainment.”

You can read an exclusive interview with Jon Snoddy and Jon Kraft in our AI-focused newsletter, AI Gamechangers.