Horizon 3 on PlayStation 6 Could Introduce AI-Powered NPCs — And I’m Here for It

Before you jump to conclusions, let’s pause for a moment. This isn’t an argument for the benevolent AI rulers as some may call them, but rather, exploring how AI could influence the future of gaming. As reported by The Verge, Sony is testing AI chatbot technology that might enhance the character Aloy in games.

AI isn’t inherently evil. It’s often seen as a creativity-stifling monster by some people, but with proper use, it can actually help developers save time and improve their work. However, one cardinal rule must always be remembered: AI should never usurp human creativity and skill.

I think it’s likely that when the PlayStation 6 is finally unveiled, it may incorporate AI technologies in significant ways due to Sony’s recent explorations with Aloy from the Horizon series. This suggests that Horizon 3, if it exists, could potentially make use of advanced AI tools.

As a gamer, I’m all for harnessing the power of AI in a way that respects and enhances creative talent rather than exploiting it. Instead of being a tool for deceit, AI could revolutionize NPC (Non-Player Character) interactions by making them more lifelike and engaging. Gone are the days when you’re limited to choosing from three predictable responses like “What,” “Who,” or “Where.” With AI at the helm, dialogues with characters could flow naturally and dynamically, taking gaming realism to unprecedented heights.

Imagine a future where we can converse with NPCs using the built-in microphone of the DualSense 6 controller. That’s not just a step forward, but a colossal leap that could transform the way we play and immerse ourselves in games.

Reflecting on the debates surrounding AI and Aloy, I found myself contemplating Sony’s future trajectory, particularly after the removal of the video featuring Sharwin Raghoebardajal, a director at Sony Interactive Entertainment, engaging in conversation with an artificially intelligent Aloy.

In the video, he queries Aloy concerning Horizon: Forbidden West, and she replies in a relaxed manner, describing the actions depicted on-screen. Interestingly, the voice you hear from Aloy isn’t Ashley Burch—the original actress of Aloy. Burch has been vocal about her disapproval towards AI-generated content and was an active participant in the Writers Guild of America strike that supported video game voice actors. Instead, the AI-created Aloy employs a combination of standard text-to-speech audio.

AI character Aloy’s decision-making wasn’t revolutionary, but her incredibly lifelike facial expressions, produced by Sony’s internal Mockingbird system, truly captured attention. This technology creates expressions that match speech flawlessly, giving a somewhat unsettling yet promising glimpse into the future of gaming. As we wait for the announcement of PlayStation 6, this technology could pave the way for more immersive and realistic gaming experiences.

RELATED: Has a Horizon MMORPG been Cancelled by Sony as Well?

Previously, game studios have dabbled with using AI for conversation generation. For instance, Ubisoft has been working on an AI tool that generates dynamic interactions for NPCs (Non-Player Characters). This technology allows for the creation of story-driven quests that are customized based on each player’s decisions. If executed correctly, it could result in distinct adventures for various players. While it may seem ambitious, AI has the potential to significantly contribute to shaping the future of gaming.

AI in gaming isn’t inherently evil, but it becomes problematic when used for harmful purposes – like what happened with Ted Faro. We certainly don’t want a repeat of that catastrophe! It’s true that AI is a delicate subject, given the hurdles it still needs to overcome. However, as we grow more comfortable with this technology, it could open up exciting possibilities for gaming. If the rumors about PlayStation 6 are accurate, Horizon 3 might just be the game to pioneer this new era.

Read More

2025-03-11 20:42