Amidst the ongoing excitement surrounding AI, the Game Developers Conference 2024 once again provided valuable insights into this rapidly evolving field of technological innovation. Within the realm of AI, the game industry stands out as an area of particular interest, having utilized machine learning and AI tools in game production and design for quite some time.
In contrast to the fervor and apparent groundbreaking disruptions of AI seen in previous years, this year’s discourse on the topic was marked by a more nuanced and cautious approach. The game industry reflected on its extensive experience with AI, particularly in NPC behaviors, real-time strategy development, automated testing, and machine learning loops. Many of AI’s recent revolutionary promises now appeared as established production practices, with advancements occurring in incremental steps rather than sudden leaps.
The spotlight of innovation seemed to be primarily on Generative AI. However, even in this domain, there was a measured reception to claims of technological advancement. The widespread use of AI and its integration into workflow processes may result in a leveling of product output towards the average. Chatbots and NPC design were viewed critically in terms of AI progress, although Ubisoft’s closed-door demonstration of context-driven NPC behavior provided an impressive exception.
Instances of AI and XR intersecting during the conference were limited. One notable example was Schell Games’ utilization of speech recognition systems for player moderation within a VR production. Nevertheless, AI continues to weave itself into the fabric of game development workflows, with game engines and software tools continuously incorporating new features. Alongside refining existing AI routines, game developers face the challenge of enhancing prompt management to elevate their creations to the next level.
