Leaked Internal Sony Video Uses Horizon's Aloy to Show AI-Powered PlayStation Character Prototype

A leaked internal video reveals Sony's exploration of AI-powered PlayStation characters. The Verge reported on a PlayStation Studios' advanced technology group video showcasing AI-driven Aloy from the *Horizon* games. The video, subsequently removed from YouTube due to a copyright claim from Sony's client, Muso, seemingly confirms its legitimacy. IGN has reached out to Sony for comment.

The video, as detailed by The Verge, features Sony Interactive Entertainment's Sharwin Raghoebardajal conversing with an AI-powered Aloy. The technology utilizes OpenAI's Whisper for speech-to-text, GPT-4 and Llama 3 for dialogue and decision-making, Sony's Emotional Voice Synthesis (EVS) for speech, and Mockingbird technology for facial animation.

The conversation, while technically impressive, reveals limitations. Aloy's voice lacks the familiar tone of Ashly Burch, instead employing a robotic text-to-speech style. Her facial animations are stiff, and her eyes lack expressiveness. Despite this, Aloy responds coherently to Raghoebardajal's questions, even referencing her backstory as a clone of Dr. Elizabeth Sobeck.

The demo seamlessly transitions into *Horizon Forbidden West*, allowing Raghoebardajal to continue the conversation within the game world. This juxtaposition highlights the potential and the inherent strangeness of conversing with a character under the player's control. The irony of using Aloy, given the *Horizon* narrative, is also apparent.

The prototype, developed with Guerrilla Games, serves as an internal demonstration. While showcasing Sony's AI investment, it's crucial to note the lack of confirmation regarding its implementation in public-facing PlayStation products. The feasibility of such technology within current PS5 games remains unclear.

Sony's efforts are unsurprising, given the industry-wide embrace of AI technology. Microsoft's commitment to AI, including its Muse AI for game design, exemplifies this trend. However, generative AI's integration faces challenges, including ethical concerns, rights issues, and the technology's current limitations in producing consistently enjoyable content. Keywords Studios' failed AI-driven game underscores these difficulties.

Despite these challenges, industry leaders remain optimistic. EA considers AI "the very core" of its business, while Capcom explores its use for generating in-game environments. Asad Qizilbash of PlayStation Productions highlights the appeal of AI-driven personalization for Gen Z and Gen Alpha gamers, emphasizing the potential for more engaging NPC interactions.

Activision's recent admission of using generative AI for some *Call of Duty: Black Ops 6* assets, amidst criticism regarding an AI-generated loading screen, further illustrates the ongoing debate surrounding the technology's application in gaming.

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