According to a press release from Microsoft, Microsoft is collaborating with Inworld AI to develop an Xbox toolset that allows developers to create artificial intelligence (AI) driven characters, stories, and tasks.
Inworld AI is a generative AI company. The company has been committed to developing AI NPCs (non player game characters) and studying their responses to real-world player problems. These AI NPCs can respond with specific sounds and can also incorporate complex dialogue trees or personalized dynamic storylines into the game.
The collaboration between Microsoft and Inworld will combine Inworld's expertise in character development using generative AI models, Microsoft's cutting-edge cloud based AI solutions (including Azure OpenAI), Microsoft Research's technical insights into the future of games, and the Xbox team's strengths in creator tools.
According to the press release, the Xbox toolset based on generative AI will include:
Firstly, the AI Copilot game design system. Xbox developers can use this system to create detailed scripts, dialogue trees, task lines, and explore more creative ideas.
Secondly, AI engines that can be integrated into game clients. It allows players to experience dynamically generated stories, missions, and dialogues, providing a brand new narrative.
Zhang Haiyan, General Manager of Artificial Intelligence for Xbox Games, said, "In Xbox, we believe that with better tools, creators can create better games
Ilya Gelfenbeyn, CEO of Inworld AI, said, "AI has always been an indispensable part of game development. The emergence of large-scale language models and generative AI has created new opportunities for storytelling and character engagement in games
AI NPC
The use of AI in game development has always been a hot topic of discussion. The production method of Assassin's Creed, such as Ubisoft, and Embark Studios from Sweden, the developer of The Finals, have already used AI to some extent in game development.
It is understood that users using Inworld technology can quickly develop NPC characters suitable for 3D, strategy, 2D and other games through text. These characters have anthropomorphic features such as memory, character background, emotions, emotional intelligence, execution, and body language, which greatly improves the playability and development efficiency of the game.
Especially in large-scale open world RPG (role-playing) games, a large number of NPCs are required to support complex storylines, and the level of NPCs is directly related to user experience and player retention.
In August of this year, Inworld announced on its official website that it had obtained a financing of $50 million, with a valuation of $500 million. This financing makes it the most fully funded startup in the AI+gaming field.