Generative artificial intelligence keeps making headlines! Ubisoft has unveiled a brand new experiment called Teammates. In 2024, the French company had already presented Neo NPC, a prototype aimed at improving NPC behavior.
This time, we are being offered a playable experience. It features an AI voice assistant called “Jaspar.” It is used to highlight enemies or objects, while providing details about the game’s universe and story. It is also capable of modifying settings in real time when the user uses voice commands described as “simple and natural.”
Overall, Teammates is a first-person shooter game that puts the player in the shoes of a resistance fighter in a dystopian future. The player is accompanied by two NPCs whose behavior is enhanced by generative AI. During a short level, this squad infiltrates an enemy base to find their missing comrades.
Xavier Manzanares, Director of Gameplay at GenAI, reflected on this experience.
“Our initial tests showed that players quickly embraced the AI-controlled NPCs and the concept of a voice assistant. Jaspar helped players when they were lost or didn’t know what to do; he could access menus and settings, and tell them more about the world and the story. We really liked Jaspar and realized that such a system could be interesting for many types of games. “
The team behind Teammates also explained that they were aware of the criticism levelled at AI in video games. So the aim is clearly not to replace creators, but rather to give them access to tools that will enrich the creative process. Virginie Mosser, Narrative Director, addressed these concerns.
“At first, I had the same concerns as many others. But I discovered that it’s the opposite of an approach that’s disconnected from humans. I still write the story and the characters’ personalities, but instead of following strict rules, we create barriers that allow NPCs to improvise within this universe while remaining faithful to the story and motivations we have given them. They can improvise, but we still set the rules and direct the story and characters.”
Ubisoft now intends to polish Teammates based on feedback from several hundred players who were able to try out the experience during a closed test.
This sounds like an exciting development for the gaming industry! It’s interesting to see how generative AI is being incorporated into gaming experiences. Looking forward to seeing how this unfolds!
Absolutely, it’s fascinating to think about how generative AI could enhance storytelling and character development in games. It might allow for more dynamic interactions that adapt to players’ choices, making each experience unique!