The 2020s are shaping up to be some of the most exciting in artificial intelligence development yet, with new generative systems reaching into many new realms. As gamers, we’ve already seen AI deliver contributions in the creation of titles, aiding in programming, testing, and asset development, but what about in play? As new generations arrive, it could be possible for AI to act as a helping hand, raising the potential of older established websites to new levels. With precedents and frameworks already set, the arrival of helping AI systems might come sooner than you think.
A Connected Framework
For AI to act as a useful helping system, it can’t just be limited to one game. It needs to offer systems that reach into many titles, an already established practice in the interactive entertainment realm. Consider how online casino games like Fire Blaze slots operate. Playable on mobile or desktop systems, these titles like Green Wizard and Big Circus are all discrete titles, yet all are connected through the eponymous Fire Blaze feature. This element shares four different levels of jackpots over its games, and it’s this level of implementation across different systems that new gaming AI will have to aim for.
The actual implementation of this idea could be challenging, however, owing to the complexity of modern AI. Few companies have the funds or knowledge to invest in their own AI infrastructure, but Microsoft could act as the trendsetter. This industry giant is already taking steps to implement its CoPilot AI system (not to be confused with its two-controller Co-Pilot Xbox system), which is supposed to act as an assistant more in a work and general use capacity. Since Microsoft owns the Xbox and publishes games on the PC, its work in AI could theoretically act as the stepping stone in gaming adoption.
What Might AI Accomplish
The simplest type of AI in gaming could act as a guide to explain certain areas, objectives, lore, and mechanics. Relying on official and community input and forums, AI could dig through information to instantly respond to queries with accurate and concise information. No more scouring through text documents, and no more scrubbing through a five-minute YouTube video of an annoying host spending more time advertising their channel than answering your question.
Going a step further, AI could also be used to maintain settings between games and provide functionality without having to navigate menus. You could prefer your games always stick to specific fields of views or controller mappings, for example, and AI could make these changes with a simple command. It could also be used while playing to connect you to your teammates or queue you for multiplayer matches without having to jump through the steps manually.
“Gaming Laptop and Controller” (CC BY-ND 2.0) by Photo-seminars.com
With so many big companies looking to add AI into their business operations, we wouldn’t be surprised to see the likes of Microsoft announce official implementation sometime soon. The right approach could deliver a new level of convenience to gaming, and add accessibility to players who would otherwise miss out. Let’s just hope it’s a free part on top of existing subscription plans.