Upon initially viewing Nvidia’s Covert Protocol demo, I wasn’t impressed by the AI-driven dialogue trees used by the NPCs. However, after trying out the demo myself at GDC 2024, I was pleasantly surprised.
My hands-on experience with the demo offered a different perspective than the passive viewing last week. The developer provided insights into various approaches I could take, reminiscent of the gameplay nuances in Hitman.
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A sandbox of conversation
In Covert Protocol, players must uncover the whereabouts of Martin Laine, a doctor and executive, tactfully and discreetly. The gameplay dynamics involve interacting with various NPCs to achieve this objective.
My journey through the demo led me to cleverly acquire information by utilizing different tactics, showcasing the depth of gameplay possibilities.
My initial skepticism regarding AI generating endless dialogue trees was dispelled by the diverse gameplay options offered in the demo. The AI serves as a supporting element rather than the main focus, enriching interactions with NPCs and enhancing the overall gameplay experience.
Realizing the potential of AI in gaming, I now see the value it can bring to certain game genres.
Awkward AI
While impressed by Nvidia’s AI demo, I acknowledge the challenges and limitations of current AI technology in gaming. There are concerns about job displacement and the need for more sophisticated AI writing to create engaging NPC behavior.
Experiencing Ubisoft’s AI demo highlighted the current awkwardness present in AI-driven game characters, indicating a need for further development and refinement before widespread adoption.
Despite these challenges, the future of AI in gaming is promising, with potential for deeper and more immersive experiences. The key lies in leveraging AI as a tool to enhance gameplay rather than replace human creativity.
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