The Future of Video Games: AI Voice Synthesising

Imagine playing a video game where every character you encounter has a unique voice and personality. You can talk to them, ask them questions, and they respond in real-time with natural-sounding dialogue. This is the promise of AI voice synthesising in video games.

One of the first games to implement this technology was Skyrim, an open-world RPG. Players could interact with non-player characters (NPCs) by speaking to them instead of choosing dialogue options from a menu. The immersion level was unparalleled.

But this technology is not perfect. Not every player has a pleasant experience, and not every developer can justify the cost. Let's explore both the pros and cons of AI voice synthesising in video games.

Benefits and Drawbacks

Benefits

• Real-time, natural-sounding dialogue
• Unique personality for every character
• Immersion level increases dramatically
• Potential for dynamic, unpredictable gameplay based on player choices
• Accessibility for players with hearing or visual impairments

Drawbacks

• High cost for development
• Not every player enjoys interacting with NPCs via voice
• Potential privacy concerns if voice data is collected and stored
• Accent and language barriers may limit accessibility for non-native speakers
• Potential for AI to replicate negative stereotypes or biases in dialogue

The Future of AI Voice Synthesising in Video Games

Despite the drawbacks, AI voice synthesising is a promising technology that has already proved successful in some video games. While the initial cost of development may be high, the benefits in terms of immersion and accessibility could be worth it if implemented thoughtfully.

Developers must consider the potential for negative consequences and take steps to prevent them, such as hiring diverse voices to ensure a variety of perspectives and avoiding stereotypes. They must also consider the individual player experience and provide options for those who prefer not to interact with NPCs via voice.

Ultimately, the future of AI voice synthesising in video games depends on how it is used. With responsible implementation, it could be a game-changer for the industry.