(Image credit: Larian Studios)
Neil Newbon, known for voicing Astarion in Baldur’s Gate 3, strongly emphasizes the necessity for ethical regulation of AI technology to avert what he terms ‘deep ramifications’ globally. This debate has been particularly prevalent in the video game industry, highlighted by the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strikes which prioritize the protection of actors against unauthorized AI imitations.
It’s not just children on TikTok having cartoon characters sing unexpected tunes; major corporations are exploring strategies to replace traditional voice actors. This sentiment was echoed through a leaked demo by Sony involving Aloy from the Horizon series. Despite its lackluster execution, it signifies a concerning trend. Ashly Burch, the voice behind Aloy, has voiced her apprehension regarding what she sees as a threat to ‘game performance as an art form.’
Many in the industry share Burch’s worries. Newbon, in an interview with Edge Magazine, articulated his stance, asserting, ‘AI will have profound effects across all sectors unless ethically overseen by humans.’ This is crucial as AI is still in its infancy and often produces subpar results, as demonstrated by the clunky Aloy demo. Newbon argues that art derived from human creativity is more impactful and relatable than that generated by machines.
Newbon’s standpoint emphasizes the significance of human expression in art. He stated, ‘As an artist, I am committed to experiencing life and art through human expression, not software. AI emerges from the creativity that humans have originally invented, showcasing the intrinsic differences between them.’ His thoughts resonate with Horizon fans, who have remarked on the irony of the AI demo, considering the game’s narrative is a cautionary tale against similar technological overreaches.
For more insights and trends in game development and the communities you cherish, stay updated through weekly digests and narratives from around the world.