So what is expected from the future of this technology and more specifically in the field of video games? Let’s try to figure it out together
artificial intelligence (IA) has revolutionized many aspects of modern society, transforming the way we interact, work and make decisions. If it is true that this technology has been the subject of research and development for decades, leading to extraordinary results, it is also true that the risks of a “lobotomization” of the market can make everything less personal and more static.
So what is expected from the future of this technology and more specifically in the field of videogame? Will historical games like GTA 6, Baldurs Gate, FIFA etc. be able to involve end users more and more? Let’s try to figure it out together.
What is an AI
AI relies on building systems that can perform tasks that require human intelligence, such as image recognition, language translation, and autonomous driving. A crucial branch of AI is the machine learning, where computers learn from data without being explicitly programmed. This approach has led to significant advances, such as training deep neural networks that outperform humans in object recognition and play.
However, the rise of AI is not without its challenges. One of them concerns ethics and accountability in the use of AI. It is essential to develop algorithms that are fair and impartial, preserving human values and putting limits on their development, also and above all in “open” videogames where excessive freedom could create unexpected developments.
There is also an often underestimated side to consider, in an increasingly social world, that of minors. How can an artificial intelligence know what is right to say and what is to be avoided to disturb a child’s sensitivity?
AI in the world of video games
Artificial intelligence has had a significant impact on the video game industryenabling more immersive, challenging and personalized gaming experiences.
In more detail, here are some examples of its use:
- Non-Player Characters (NPCs): AI is used to create non-player characters within the game world. These NPCs can react realistically to their surroundings and interact with the player, enhancing immersion in the game.
- Adversarial Intelligence: The AI is responsible for the behavior of computer opponents. Enemies can adapt to the player’s strategy, making gameplay challenges more dynamic and multifaceted.
- Learning and Adaptation: Some games use machine learning to make the AI adapt to the player’s behavior. This makes the game more challenging, as the challenge level adjusts according to the player’s actions.
- Dynamic narrative: AI has been employed to create dynamic narratives within the games. This allows players to make decisions that affect the course of the story, offering unique and personalized gameplay experiences.
- Procedural Generation: AI is used to generate game content automatically, such as levels, maps and landscapes. This approach allows for the creation of vast and varied worlds without requiring every detail to be handcrafted.
- Graphics and Animation: AI has been applied to improve graphics and animation in games. Techniques like ray tracing allow for more realistic rendering, while AI can be used to animate characters more naturally and smoothly.
- Personalized Recommendations: AI can analyze player behavior and suggest content or challenges that suit individual preferences. This enhances the gaming experience and can encourage discovery of new aspects of the game.
- Test dell’IA: Developers can use AI to test games in development. The AI can simulate the behavior of human players, detecting any bugs or imbalances in the gameplay.
- Realism and Emotional Intelligence: Some games are exploring AI that creates characters with emotional intelligence, reacting to the player’s emotions in more authentic ways. This approach can contribute to a more immersive gaming experience.
Conclusions
As we have seen, artificial intelligence is transforming the way video games are created, played and experienced. Come on graphic details to character behavior, AI is taking the video game industry to new levels of innovation and engagement.
If this is good from the side of realism and entertainment, it highlights a less exciting aspect of the technology itself… the human side.
In fact, it will be difficult to notice the touch and personalization of a product but we will get closer and closer to perfection leaving out the more romantic and nostalgic aspect.
How long will it be before we see thousands of “same” mechanical titles hit the market? And how quickly will we adapt to this new way of interacting? We just have to wait and live the future!