The Evolution of Gaming Through AI

Suddenly, AI is everywhere. From computer development, medical care and manufacturing to translation, journalism and education, artificial intelligence is rapidly altering the way our world operates. In the world of gaming, too, both the general gameplay and the overall user experience have seen a notable impact from AI. But what kind of changes have we seen so far, and how can we expect things to progress in the future?

Part of the Continuum

Unlike other industries that appear to have already been turned upside-down by the onset of artificial intelligence, in gaming the process has been less dramatic revolution, more skilful evolution. This is natural: almost by definition, video game play is to at least a certain extent computer-driven, and machine decision-making is an integral part of most games. Even Pong had a single-player versus computer mode, and other early classics like Doom involved plenty of non-player characters to interact with (or fight).

The biggest difference today is the sheer level of sophistication in gameplay: characters are becoming ever more complex, capable of (semi-)independent thought, greater autonomy and unpredictable actions, leading to more immersive and interactive gameplay. Similarly, the worlds the games inhabit are also being aided by AI. AI-assisted graphics can provide a greater sense of realism and depth, while the greater computational power of AI and its ability to manage huge amounts of data also promote increasingly intricate storytelling.

More Immersive and Greater Customization

There are also some notable and also more subtle changes from AI in terms of the user experience. Game designers, for example, today often use AI in the design process to help identify issues and identify smoother processes in relation to the layout, visuals and functions. As a result, the end user can often enjoy a more streamlined gaming experience than in the past.

While there are certainly limits to these capabilities, there is also no question that game designers are already using AI to enhance the games they produce, with the main focus on providing a more immersive gaming experience and also greater customization. This is true for both conventional games such as Call of Duty, Fallout and Grand Theft Auto, and also many other areas of the gaming world.

Safer and More Interactive

Online casinos, for example, have been able to offer a far more personalized gaming experience for users. Features such as interactive AI-generated croupiers and augmented reality help to offer a more immersive gameplay. There is also room for providing information for users: TrustNPlay, for example, now has a betting 101 section about online casino use that is powered in part by AI and provides visitors with key information on how to play safely and effectively.

In tandem, thanks to its ability to analyze huge amounts of data almost in real time AI is able to detect and prevent cheating in any kind of multiplayer game – a vital step for both areas like online gambling, of course, but just as highly appreciated in conventional console gaming. Similarly, more sophisticated AI programs are also able to provide greater assistance in protecting user data and identifying other security risks.

In the future, of course, we can only expect to see the importance of AI increase. While most experts don’t expect to see too many 100% AI-generated games – at least not just yet – artificial intelligence will be an increasingly integral aspect of the overall gaming experience. And while there are sure to be issues along the way, most gamers and – game producers – will hope that it will help to create a more immersive, more secure and even more enjoyable experience for everyone.