Sony is testing AI-driven characters for PlayStation, as shown in a leaked internal video.
The Verge reported that the video, created by PlayStation Studios’ tech group, features Aloy from the Horizon series to showcase AI capabilities in gaming.
The video was removed from YouTube after a copyright complaint from Muso, which lists Sony as a client. This adds to the video’s credibility. IGN reached out to Sony for a statement.
In the video, Sharwin Raghoebardajal, Sony Interactive Entertainment’s director of software engineering, talks with an AI version of Aloy using voice prompts and AI-generated responses.
The AI powers include OpenAI’s Whisper for speech recognition, GPT-4 and Llama 3 for conversation, Sony’s Emotional Voice Synthesis (EVS) for voice, and Mockingbird technology for facial movements.
During the demo, when Raghoebardajal asks Aloy how she is, she replies with a robotic voice, different from her usual voice actor Ashly Burch, saying, “Hello, I’m managing alright. Just dealing with a sore throat. How have you been?”
Despite the advanced tech, Aloy’s facial expressions look stiff, and her eyes lack life as she interacts.
Responding to a question about her mother’s search, Aloy explains: “I discovered I’m a clone of Dr. Elizabeth Sobeck, which led me to understand my purpose and origins.”
When Raghoebardajal asks how it feels to be a clone, she shares, “Being a clone feels unique, connecting me to the past while allowing me to create my own path and future.”
The demo eventually shifts into the Horizon Forbidden West game world as the conversation continues, creating an odd mix of player control and AI interaction, especially considering Aloy’s storyline.
This prototype was developed with help from Guerrilla Games to showcase this technology internally at Sony. Raghoebardajal mentioned, “This is just a glimpse of what is possible.” Sony has not confirmed plans to use this tech in future PlayStation titles.
It’s no surprise that Sony is exploring AI, as many competitors in the gaming industry are also investing in similar technologies. Microsoft, for instance, is heavily focused on AI advancements.
Generative AI is a hot topic in gaming and entertainment, especially after significant layoffs in these industries. However, it has faced criticism over ethical concerns and the challenge of creating enjoyable content. An example is Keywords Studios, which attempted to make a game using only AI but eventually found it lacking, stating that AI couldn’t replace human talent.
Recently, EA emphasized that AI is central to its strategy, while Capcom has begun experimenting with generative AI to create new ideas for game environments.
Asad Qizilbash, head of PlayStation Productions, noted that AI’s role in video games is essential for younger gamers who seek personalized experiences. He said, “Non-player characters could engage with players based on their actions, making it feel more personal.”
Activision has even acknowledged the use of generative AI for some assets in Call of Duty, despite criticism over quality.
Wesley is the UK News Editor for IGN. Find him on Twitter at @wyp100. You can reach Wesley at wesley_yinpoole@ign.com or confidentially at wyp100@proton.me.
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