In a recent interview, video game developer Blizzard made a tongue-in-cheek joke about the possibility of using AI chatbot “ChatGPT” to aid with content creation for its popular massively multiplayer online game World of Warcraft. While there are no plans to make ChatGPT or any other type of AI the driving force behind the game’s expansions, it is still worth exploring the potential role AI can play in the development process.
ChatGPT is a type of artificial intelligence software that offers human-like responses in digital conversations. By training the AI’s model with text databases and digital libraries of books, articles, and even Wikipedia, ChatGPT and similar software can generate detailed responses to questions given. ChatGPT also uses “reward models”, wherein humans evaluate the quality of responses given by the AI.
While these viable solutions may provide insights to game developers, AI is still not always reliable and are known for providing factually incorrect information. During an interview with IGN, World of Warcraft game director Ion Hazzikostas revealed that during a humorous experiment with ChatGPT, the AI provided the response “Return to the Shadowlands” when asked what the next WoW expansion should be. Considering the Shadowlands expansion was met with much criticism, Hazzikostas found himself with some job security.
Aside from using AI for creative tasks, Hazzikostas also noted that Blizzard is using machine learning for mundane works such as fitting helmets around elves’ ears. Executive producer Holly Longdale then added that AI can be an evolution that helps the development process in the future.
Despite these comments, the concerns over AI taking over game development and eliminating the need for human efforts are still present. Unfortunately, these questions will remain unanswered until the technology develops further. World of Warcraft is available now for PC, Mac, and all major consoles.
