The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) is massively transforming the gaming industry and has been for quite some time. For example, back in the 1990s, the Finite State Machine (FSM) algorithm was first implemented within video games in order to bring life to non-player characters (NPCs).
What this essentially meant was that the supporting cast in games, peripheral characters that players couldn’t play as, were able to respond to the actions of the protagonist based on pre-programmed behaviors and responses. The effect this had was monumental for the gaming industry: it brought a new dimension of immersion and interaction to console gaming.
In the digital age, it is quite evident that gaming has seen further cutting-edge advancements with AI technology at the forefront of its success. Ultimately, there’s no telling just how far AI can go and how it can impact the future of the gaming industry for the better. In the meanwhile, however, let’s look at how far we’ve already come within the gaming industry as a result of AI’s involvement.
Source: Pexels
More interactivity
The implementation of AI in game development opens a world of possibilities. One of the main selling points of AI is its potential for increased interactivity both between the software and its players. What’s more, with the use of machine learning, there is significant potential for AI systems to advance in their ability to study and learn the playing patterns of gamers individually. This means that AI can then deliver tailored responses, therefore, improving user experience.
In other words, much like players who are learning the rules of the game and are playing against it, the game is also learning how to play against the player. One example of this can be seen in the popular game series The Last of Us. This game is an action-adventure game featured on PlayStation. Interestingly, with the use of AI, every character has two possible behavioral traits, one on the offensive side, and the other on the defensive. The outcome primarily depends on how the players respond to situations involving different characters.
High-level graphics
Much like increased interactivity, another way to improve user experience is through the use of high-level graphics. AI can really seek to push the limits when it comes to adopting better graphics by developing new textures and for very little cost. With enough processing power, AI can take it to the next level by doing it in real-time.
Through the use of AI systems rather than simple scripted code, a player’s experience in the digital world could be handled more realistically. For example, lighting and reflections may change in real-time to reflect the player’s surroundings.
Customized experience
AI is a fast-growing technological tool in the gaming industry. This is primarily due to its enhanced ability to collect data that is relevant to the different habits of players. This, therefore, provides a more personal approach that caters specifically to a gamer’s needs. One industry that has fully embraced the use of new technology in order to deliver a better experience for players is the casino industry.
Many casino sites are open to adopting new technological advancements to enhance user experience. The use of AI would therefore be a great way to improve their services as this technology affects not only the development of the games themselves but also the ways in which businesses gain consumer insights (through methods like social listening).
For example, a US player who frequently searches casino sites for promotional offers like welcome bonuses may receive offers such as a $200 no deposit bonus and other similar no deposit casino offers. This customized approach helps the player find the best offer for them. This also means that AI is able to store this information and suggest more bonuses and incentives that will appeal more to the player’s needs in the future.
Source: Pixabay
On the whole, there are many ways in which AI could impact the gaming industry for the better. More interactivity, high-level graphics, and having a customized experience are all significant ways in which AI could benefit the gaming industry in the future. However, with AI still in its early stages, there is no telling just how far it can go.