The bigwigs who want AI-generated NPCs and writing think you're too dumb to appreciate a good story—don't prove them right

Several high-profile companies believe that the use of AI-generated NPCs and writing in video games will enhance the gaming experience, but they are mistaken. While some isolated tech demos have demonstrated impressive results, the implementation of such technology in actual games has fallen short of expectations. Ubisoft, for instance, wants to create personalized and immersive experiences with AI-powered NPCs, while Convai and Meaning Machine are pursuing similar goals.

However, these aspirations fail at the conceptual level, as good storytelling is not about replacing well-crafted narrative elements with AI-generated content. The importance of background details, such as NPC dialogue, combat barks, and side-quests, should not be underestimated. These elements contribute to the sense of scale, place, and character within a game world, making it more immersive and engaging for players.

Furthermore, the assumption that AI-generated NPCs can tell stories is fundamentally flawed. The countless small choices made by writers in creating intricate background details, such as dialogue and side-quests, provide far more creativity and depth than the broad, conceptual idea behind AI-powered NPCs. Replacing these valuable elements with AI-generated content will only result in a shallower gaming experience.

The perception among these bigwigs that players are too dumb to appreciate a good story is misguided. They fail to recognize that the little choices made by writers matter significantly, and that AI-generated content cannot replicate the nuanced and creative storytelling that human writers can provide.