AI's impact on gaming industry raises concerns about job displacement

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: News websites
27 Aug 2023 11:19

The integration of AI into the gaming industry, showcased at Gamescom 2023, elicits innovative prospects and raises concerns.

Visitors wait for a Starfield event at the Gamescom Xbox booth, August 24, 2023 (AP)

As the world's largest gaming event, Gamescom, unfolds in Cologne, with many showcasing the latest AI-driven creations, the gaming industry seems to be facing a new era of transformation, France 24 reported.

AI engineer and United Bits Game studio founder, Julien Millet, who attended the event, stated that AI represents a pivotal turning point for the industry. While AI holds immense potential for revolutionizing various aspects of game development, concerns are arising about the potential displacement of jobs and the appropriation of artistic endeavors.

Developers are exploring various applications of AI, ranging from responsive non-playable characters to automatic image and code generation for game scenarios. One standout feature is the AI's ability to swiftly translate text into illustrations, enabling creators to more effectively communicate their artistic vision.

However, this surge of AI-generated content has raised apprehensions within the creative community. Concept artists, who traditionally visualize and shape the game's universe before digital creation, fear that AI-generated imagery might render their role obsolete. Millet expressed concern about the potential impact on these jobs, underscoring the uncertainty that accompanies this technological advancement.

The introduction of AI has led to more lifelike gameplay experiences. Sarah Brin, representing Kythera AI, emphasized how AI-driven character movements contribute to a heightened sense of realism. Nvidia, the US chipmaker, showcased their ACE software, enabling developers to create intelligent in-game characters through AI. A promotional video depicted a player engaging in conversation with a virtual ramen noodle chef, highlighting AI's narrative potential.

Nevertheless, the integration of AI comes with legal complexities. The creation of expansive virtual worlds using AI-generated content could potentially infringe on the intellectual property rights of original images. Sarah Brin from Kythera AI warned that major publishers using generative AI could face copyright-related vulnerabilities.