New Ways to Use Artificial Intelligence in Video Games

Jalwa Win has a long history of being cautious when it comes to using cutting-edge AI technology. That’s largely because AI isn’t deterministic, making it hard to test every possible variation of player behavior and ensure that the algorithm doesn’t do something silly. But as AI algorithms improve, developers are finding ways to use them in new and exciting ways that expand the capabilities of their games.

One area where AI is particularly well-suited to video games is creating characters and opponents that behave like humans. Pathfinding algorithms enable NPCs to navigate environments efficiently, while reinforcement learning allows them to learn and adapt from the player’s actions to provide a more personalized challenge. Procedural generation also offers limitless possibilities for unique content and story-driven experiences, ensuring that each playthrough feels distinct and memorable.

The Role of AI in Simulation Games like Cities and Farms

Similarly, the visual fidelity of video game worlds can be enhanced by the use of AI. Tools like Nvidia’s GauGAN can analyze landscape imagery and render textures and objects with extraordinary realism, allowing games to be set in vast, expansive landscapes without noticably repeating textures or assets. Effects like weather patterns, foliage movement, and fire propagation can also be simulated by AI, enhancing realism and making the experience feel more authentic.

Lastly, generative AI can offer a new way for designers to create games. By combining traditional AI systems with Large Language Models (LRM), developers can generate text and sound for their games that is more natural than the previous generation of artificial intelligence. This is already being used in a number of games, including Cygnus Enterprises’ cross-genre action RPG Shooter, whose companion character uses LRM to generate realistic speech. Other examples include augmented reality generative games like Wol and Alice in Wonderland-themed social roleplaying game Hidden Door, both of which are powered by generative AI.