A leaked internal Sony video reveals ongoing experimentation with AI-powered PlayStation characters. The Verge reported on this video, allegedly from PlayStation Studios' advanced technology group, showcasing Aloy from the *Horizon* series as an AI-powered character. The video's removal from YouTube following a copyright claim from Muso (a company listing Sony Interactive Entertainment as a client) suggests its legitimacy. IGN has reached out to Sony for comment.
According to The Verge, the video features Sony Interactive Entertainment's director of software engineering, Sharwin Raghoebardajal, conversing with an AI-powered Aloy. The technology utilized includes OpenAI's Whisper for speech-to-text, GPT-4 and Llama 3 for dialogue and decision-making, Sony's Emotional Voice Synthesis (EVS) for speech, and Sony's Mockingbird technology for facial animation. The resulting AI Aloy, however, has a robotic voice distinct from voice actor Ashly Burch's portrayal and exhibits stiff, lifeless facial movements.
The conversation touches upon Aloy's well-being and her quest, with the AI responding appropriately to prompts. The demo seamlessly transitions into the *Horizon Forbidden West* game world, allowing Raghoebardajal to continue the conversation within the game environment. This integration highlights both the potential and the somewhat jarring effect of interacting with a controlled character in this manner. The irony of using Aloy, given the *Horizon* storyline, is also apparent.
The demo is described as a prototype developed with Guerrilla Games, showcasing the technology's potential. While Sony hasn't confirmed plans for public integration, the video demonstrates their investment in AI-powered characters. This aligns with industry trends, as competitors like Microsoft (with its Muse AI) are actively pursuing similar AI technologies for game development.
Generative AI's role in gaming is a hot topic, particularly given recent industry layoffs. Concerns regarding ethical issues, rights, and the ability of AI to consistently produce enjoyable content remain. Keywords Studios' failed experiment with an entirely AI-generated game highlights these challenges. Despite this, companies like EA and Capcom are actively exploring generative AI's potential, with Capcom using it to generate ideas for game environments. Asad Qizilbash of PlayStation Productions highlighted the importance of AI-driven personalization for younger gamers (Gen Z and Alpha) who seek personalized gaming experiences.
Activision's recent admission of using generative AI for some *Call of Duty: Black Ops 6* assets, amidst criticism over an AI-generated loading screen, further underscores the ongoing debate surrounding AI's role in game development.
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