I kind of get why game companies are so obsessed with AI NPCs
The problem with open worlds like Fallout is the repetitive quests and predictable dialogue, and LLM NPCs are a technology that could fundamentally change that. But the actual quality still feels like a demo, and how much real NPC data gets fed in will be the deciding factor.
From a developer's perspective, creating an AI NPC dramatically cuts the cost of voice recording and scriptwriting. It could also boost replay value since every conversation is different. That said, the challenge remains how to stop hallucinations from breaking the game's story.
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Oh, I didn't know that. But I agree with the point about replay value.
I agree. I want to see NPCs in an open world each having their own unique dialogue.
Do you have a source? I'd like to see some real examples.
That's right lol, the voice recording cost savings are really huge, aren't they?
Yeah, once AI conversations are possible, quests will probably feel a lot more natural.
Well, isn't that a bit optimistic? No matter how good LLM NPCs are, storytelling ultimately has to be crafted by humans.
I once tried an AI NPC in an indie game, and I was amazed at how natural the conversations felt. There are still clear limitations, but I think the potential is definitely there.
Personally, I think the hallucination problem will be more serious than expected. After all, what matters in a game is the story AI—if it says something strange, the immersion is completely ruined.