With the introduction of an online iteration of its Trivial Pursuit game that leverages AI to generate questions based on individuals’ interests and concepts, toy manufacturer Hasbro aims to attract a new audience.
Trivial Pursuit Infinite was launched today on the website Trivialpursuit.com, offering two distinct play modes: an “infinite” mode allowing players to field questions on any topic, and a standard challenge featuring conventional game queries.
The adoption of AI is gaining traction among toy companies, not solely for the development of interactive drones or toys showcasing unique abilities but also for infusing a contemporary twist into traditional games.
In September, Mattel unveiled Pictionary AI, which employs AI-driven smartphone applications for guessing drawn images rather than human participants.
Hasbro’s objective is to provide enthusiasts of all age groups with additional avenues to engage with the 41-year-old game through Trivial Pursuit Infinite.
Unveiling a New Dimension to Gaming Experience
According to Gray Bright, Vice President of Artificial Intelligence and Game Development at Hasbro, the digital rendition “ushers Trivial Pursuit into a new era through conceptual AI,” rendering the game more accessible for fans to relish anytime and anywhere.
Over the past year, Hasbro has been dedicated to “exploring the effective and ethical utilization of artificial intelligence to create delightful experiences for our audience,” as per Bright. Hasbro swiftly transitioned from conceptualization to execution within three months of conceiving Trivial Pursuit Infinite in 2023.
Bright emphasized the importance of user feedback post-launch to enhance gameplay, stating, “We eagerly anticipate unveiling the game to players to gather their insights.”
Trivial Pursuit Infinite’s daily challenge showcases the familiar multiple-choice questions synonymous with the classic game.
While the online match is complimentary, there is an option to purchase physical copies of Trivial Pursuit, including traditional and themed editions like Friends or Harry Potter, through an embedded link to Amazon.
Evolution in Party Gaming
Although Trivial Pursuit initially faced a tepid reception upon its debut at the 1982 New York Toy Fair, it swiftly burgeoned into a popular pastime during the mid-1980s, with over 20 million game sets sold in 1984.
Conceived by four French associates—Scott Abbott, Chris Haney, John Hayne, and Ed Werner—the game tasks players with answering trivial queries to advance across the board. Parker Brothers acquired the U.S. and French rights in 1988, subsequently acquired by Hasbro in 1992.
Bright revealed that Trivial Pursuit Infinite will receive periodic updates, with the Daily Challenge accessible once daily and infinite gameplay available thrice daily.
The game feature allowing players to share accomplishments with friends mirrors functionalities present in popular online games like Wordle and Spelling Bee, available to New York Times subscribers.
In a recent trial this autumn, Hasbro introduced an AI-infused online experience by offering an AI-powered Ouija board for Halloween, where players could pose questions and receive AI-generated responses. Bright noted the success of this venture, hinting at potential AI enhancements across Hasbro’s game portfolio.
Bright expressed optimism about the future of AI in game design, asserting, “While we believe exceptional games stem from human creativity, cutting-edge tools like conceptual AI can introduce players to novel experiences they will cherish.”
He concluded by inviting global creators and players to partake in this innovative journey at Hasbro.
