Former Google DeepMind researchers have developed an AI behavior engine to enhance player interaction with NPCs in video games, aiming to create a more dynamic gaming experience.
Artificial Agency, a company based in Canada, has secured $16 million in funding to differentiate its behavior engine from other AI-powered NPC generators in the market.
Unlike traditional NPCs controlled by decision trees and scripts, Artificial Agency’s behavior engine allows game developers to define motivations, rules, and goals for NPCs, resulting in more varied and realistic interactions with players.
Competing in a crowded space, Artificial Agency believes that integrating AI-generated NPCs into game design is the future of the industry.
The startup, backed by Radical Ventures and Toyota Ventures, is collaborating with AAA studios to implement its behavior engine and aims to make the technology widely available by 2025.
Who wants AI NPCs?
Artificial Agency is working with notable game studios to adopt its AI technology, anticipating widespread adoption within the industry by 2025.
While some game developers are open to using generative AI in their processes, concerns about ethics and untested technology remain prevalent within the industry.
With a team experienced in AI from Google DeepMind, Artificial Agency is confident in its ability to provide best-in-class NPC behavior tools.
The startup’s technology was showcased in Minecraft, demonstrating NPC abilities to perform complex actions autonomously, offering unique experiences for players without the need for extensive programming.
Will gamers pay the price for AI?
Artificial Agency predicts decreasing costs for AI inferencing, potentially making AI NPCs cost-effective for game developers without significantly increasing end-user prices.
However, some speculate that the deployment of AI NPCs could lead to premium features or monthly fees for gamers, depending on the model and implementation in games.
