The ongoing strike by SAG-AFTRA members against major video game makers in the industry has brought to light the issue of better protections against AI. While some companies are facing backlash for their use of artificial intelligence in game development, Amazon Games CEO Christoph Hartmann remains optimistic about the potential benefits of AI in the industry.
In an interview with IGN, Hartmann expressed his belief that AI could help speed up the development process for games, which can often take several years to complete. He hopes that AI can streamline processes and reduce development time, allowing for more iteration and potentially lowering budgets. While Hartmann acknowledges the current strike by SAG-AFTRA members, he believes that AI can bring new gameplay ideas without taking work away from anyone, especially since he believes that games don’t really have acting.
However, it’s important to note that video games, especially AAA titles, do indeed involve acting. Performance capture and voice acting play a crucial role in bringing characters to life and immersing players in the game world. Games like The Last of Us, Baldur’s Gate 3, and Tomb Raider have all featured talented casts that have become integral to the gaming experience.
Even Amazon’s own internally developed game, New World, boasts a large cast of voice actors for its various localizations. Hartmann sees AI as a tool to help speed up localization efforts, making games accessible to a wider audience in different languages. While AI can assist with certain tasks, Hartmann emphasizes that the creative spark and unique ideas brought by humans cannot be replaced by machines.
Despite the potential benefits of AI in game development, there are concerns within the industry about the impact on voice actors. Some actors fear that AI may eventually replace them, leading to job loss and uncertainty in the industry. One Red Dead Redemption 2 actor expressed his concerns about AI replacing voice actors, stating that while it may be unavoidable, he simply wants to continue working in the industry he loves.
In conclusion, the debate over AI in game development continues to evolve, with proponents like Hartmann touting the benefits of streamlining processes and improving localization efforts. However, it’s essential to consider the impact on voice actors and the creative aspects of game development that make each title unique. As technology advances, finding a balance between AI and human creativity will be crucial in shaping the future of the gaming industry.