Many gamers are skeptical about AI-generated content in video games. Yet, Ubisoft is diving headfirst into this tech with a new experiment called Teammates. This first-person shooter features AI-controlled characters that respond to voice commands in real-time. Whether this will help Ubisoft stabilize on shaky ground remains to be seen, especially after their previous push into NFTs.
On November 21, after a delayed earnings call, Ubisoft introduced Teammates, described as their “first playable generative AI research project.” Built using the Snowdrop Engine, the same tech behind titles like The Division 2 and Star Wars Outlaws, this game includes an AI assistant named Jaspar along with two squadmates: Pablo and Sofia. Players can command these characters using natural language, asking for help in battle or when solving puzzles. Jaspar provides mission tracking and advice as needed.
The team behind Teammates previously developed AI-driven NPCs known as Neo NPCs, showcased at GDC 2024. These characters aim to interact dynamically with players while adhering to guidelines from Ubisoft’s designers. While the company has put measures in place to avoid issues like toxic behavior or unrealistic responses, they acknowledge that the AI technology is still a work in progress.
Ubisoft stresses that this tech won’t replace the human touch in game development. However, the past couple of years haven’t been easy for the company, having laid off over 600 employees as they try to cut costs. It’s hard to believe that AI companions could turn the tide for Ubisoft, especially given the uncertainty surrounding its future.
In an interview, Ubisoft’s director of GenAI gameplay, Xavier Manzanares, mentioned, “Games of tomorrow will listen, understand, and react to players far more than today.” He sees Teammates as a step towards more adaptive gameplay that could enhance traditional gaming experiences.
Looking back, it’s intriguing to see Ubisoft shift from NFTs and the metaverse to AI. While they haven’t completely abandoned those earlier ideas, it’s clear they are banking on AI as their next big bet to attract investors and signal innovation.
AI’s impact on gaming isn’t just a fleeting trend; a recent survey showed that 76% of gamers are interested in more adaptive game experiences. As technology evolves, the potential for intelligent NPCs could reshape how players interact with games.
Time will tell if Ubisoft’s gamble on AI will pay off, but it represents a significant shift in how games may be developed in the future.
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