'There was some really fair criticism': Arc Raiders' devs understand why players were so upset about its AI use but admit that it was 'too impractical to record' every voice line
Embark has since re-recorded lines to inject more real human voices to the game.
Arc Raiders, developed by Embark Studios, faced criticism over its use of AI-generated voice lines to supplement dialogue. While the actors signed contracts allowing AI usage, players were unhappy with the lifeless and odd nature of the AI-generated lines, especially when compared to the exceptional NPC performances. Embark Studios' audio director, Bence Pajor, explained that they used AI mainly for efficiency and faster updates, not due to a fondness for the technology.
The actors were present during the entire process, but not used to record the final lines due to the impracticality of recording every possible version. Recording the training data for the AI system proved too challenging, as it would have been overwhelming for the actors to read all the required dialogue. Despite Embark's commitment to supporting voice actors, the precedent set by using AI for voice lines has been detrimental to the industry.
While real voice actors would have been a better alternative, the controversy highlights the industry's persistent desire to cut costs and optimize creative processes.
Written by urgent.news from PC Gamer's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
