Microsoft Unveils AI-Generated Quake II Demo with Copilot
Microsoft unveiled its Xbox AI era earlier this year with a new Muse AI model that can generate gameplay.
A First Look at Muse
While it looked like Muse was still an early Microsoft Research project, the Xbox maker is now allowing Copilot users to try out Muse through an AI-generated version of Quake II.
Playable Tech Demo
The tech demo is part of Microsoft’s Copilot for Gaming push, and features an AI-generated replica of Quake II that is playable in a browser.
The Quake II level is very basic and includes blurry enemies and interactions, and Microsoft is limiting the amount of time you can even play this tech demo.
Technical Details
While Microsoft originally demonstrated its Muse AI model at 10fps and a 300 x 180 resolution, this latest demo runs at a playable frame rate and at a slightly higher resolution of 640 x 360.
It’s still a very limited experience though, and more of a hint at what might be possible in the future.
Purpose of Muse
Microsoft is still positioning Muse as an AI model that can help game developers prototype games.
When Muse was unveiled in February, Microsoft also mentioned it was exploring how this AI model could help improve classic games, just like Quake II, and bring them to modern hardware.
“You could imagine a world where from gameplay data and video that a model could learn old games and really make them portable to any platform where these models could run,” said Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer in February.
“We’ve talked about game preservation as an activity for us, and these models and their ability to learn completely how a game plays without the necessity of the original engine running on the original hardware opens up a ton of opportunity.”
Future Plans
It’s clear that Microsoft is now training Muse on more games than just Bleeding Edge, and it’s likely we’ll see more short interactive AI game experiences in Copilot Labs soon.
Microsoft is also working on turning Copilot into a coach for games, allowing the AI assistant to see what you’re playing and help with tips and guides.
Part of that experience will be available to Windows Insiders through Copilot Vision soon.
Conclusion
The latest demo from Microsoft showcases the potential of its Muse AI model in generating gameplay, and its possibilities in improving classic games. While the experience is still limited, it provides a glimpse into the future of game development and preservation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Muse AI model?
A: Muse is an AI model developed by Microsoft that can generate gameplay and help game developers prototype games.
Q: What is the purpose of Muse?
A: Microsoft is positioning Muse as an AI model that can help game developers prototype games and improve classic games, bringing them to modern hardware.
Q: Can I play the Quake II demo?
A: Yes, the Quake II demo is playable in a browser, but Microsoft is limiting the amount of time you can play it.
Q: What is Copilot Vision?
A: Copilot Vision is a feature that will allow the AI assistant to see what you’re playing and help with tips and guides, and will be available to Windows Insiders soon.
