Video game developer Keywords Studios endeavored to develop a game solely relying on artificial intelligence, but encountered a limitation in its ability to provide talent.
As reported by Game Developer, Keywords embarked on creating a 2D game exclusively using Gen AI in its recent fiscal earnings report. The approach over a six-month period shed light on the potential for Gen AI to streamline game development processes while also identifying areas where it falls short.
Keywords noted that the AI tool drew inspiration from seven distinct game development projects for the game, as it struggled to replace human creativity and expertise.
The consensus reached was that AI could serve as a supplementary tool in game development, as its efficacy hinged on the involvement of human experts. While Gen AI might expedite certain tasks, Keywords emphasized that optimal results and quality could only be achieved through the collaboration of skilled professionals leveraging Gen AI as a novel and potent asset in their creative endeavors.
Given its experimental nature, the game resulting from this project will not be released to the public, with Keywords refraining from disclosing further specifics about the nature of the 2D game developed.
A prominent player in the outsourcing industry, Keywords Studios has contributed to the development of acclaimed titles such as Alan Wake 2, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Kingdom, and Baldur’s Gate 3.
Insights from Voice Actors in Video Games Regarding AI
The integration of AI in video games has sparked varied reactions from voice actors. For example, Embark Studios, renowned for the successful shooter The Finals, faced backlash for incorporating AI-generated narration, drawing criticism from players and developers alike. Despite this, Embark clarified that it utilized a combination of recorded and AI-generated text-to-speech audio in its games.
Voice actress Victoria Atkin, known for her role in Assassin’s Creed Syndicate, referred to AI-generated voice Skyrim plugins as the “invisible army challenging us,” upon discovering the replication of her voice through copying programs. Even Paul Eiding, the voice artist behind Colonel Campbell in the Metal Gear Solid series, expressed disdain for such practices.
Doug Cockle, the voice actor for The Witcher, voiced apprehension and discontent regarding the increasing reliance on AI in the video game industry, deeming it “inevitable” yet “perilous.” CD Projekt Red, the studio behind The Witcher series, has experience in using AI for voice acting, albeit under unique circumstances following the approval of a deceased actor’s family.
Ryan Dinsdale, a freelance writer for IGN, holds a penchant for discussing The Witcher extensively.
