The Concerns of AI in Gaming: Aloy’s Actress Weighs In
A Jarring Revelation
Last week, a leaked video surfaced online, demonstrating new technology replacing Horizon’s protagonist Aloy with an AI chatbot. The Sony experiment was a jarring revelation for gaming fans who were staunchly against the move.
The Concerns of Game Design
AI and the future of game design is still a tumultuous topic, but sadly, we’re already seeing lazy corner-cutting AI usage permeating the gaming sphere (Activision, I’m looking at you). In the wake of continued SAG-AFTRA’s strikes, it’s concerning to see that developers are continuing to snub the human talent that brings their games to life.
Ashly Burch’s Concerns
Taking to Instagram, Ashly Burch, the official actress of Aloy, explained that the game’s developer, Guerrilla, got in touch to ensure her that the video "didn’t reflect anything that was actively in development." Despite their claims, Ashly told followers, "I feel worried about this art form. Game performance as an art form."
The Future of Game Design
"I feel worried not because the technology exists. Not even because game companies want to use it. Because of course they do. They always want to use technological advancements," she adds. "I love this industry and this art form so much and I want there to be a new generation of actors. I want there to be so many more incredible game performances," Ashly says. "I want to be able to continue, to do this job, and if we don’t win, then that future is really compromised," she concludes.
The Uncertain Future of AI in Gaming
In a time where tensions are high around AI in the gaming industry, Sony’s leaked video presents us with an uncertain future. Using AI technology to create a more immersive, personalized gaming experience has been talked about for some time, but there’s a huge difference in applying the technology to NPCs vs beloved protagonists. At the moment, it’s easy to lose faith in the games industry and anticipate an AI takeover, but the optimist in me hopes that it can strike a balance where AI innovation is merely an enhancement of human talent.
Conclusion
As the gaming industry continues to evolve, it’s essential to strike a balance between innovation and human talent. While AI can enhance the gaming experience, it’s crucial to remember that it’s the human touch that brings games to life. As Ashly Burch so eloquently puts it, "game performance as an art form."
FAQs
Q: What is AI in gaming?
A: AI in gaming refers to the use of artificial intelligence to create more immersive and personalized gaming experiences.
Q: Why are some gamers concerned about AI in gaming?
A: Some gamers are concerned that AI will replace human talent, leading to a loss of jobs and a homogenization of gaming experiences.
Q: What is the purpose of using AI in gaming?
A: The purpose of using AI in gaming is to create more realistic and engaging experiences for players. AI can be used to create more realistic NPC interactions, personalized gameplay, and improved storytelling.

