A leaked internal Sony video reveals ongoing experimentation with AI-powered PlayStation characters. The Verge reported on this video, allegedly from PlayStation Studios' advanced technology group, showcasing Aloy from the *Horizon* games as an AI-powered character. The video's removal from YouTube following a copyright claim from Muso (a company listing Sony Interactive Entertainment as a client) lends credence to its authenticity. IGN has reached out to Sony for comment.

The video, as described by The Verge, features Sony Interactive Entertainment's director of software engineering, Sharwin Raghoebardajal, conversing with an AI-powered Aloy. This interaction 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 Sony's Mockingbird technology for facial animation.

The AI Aloy's voice differs from voice actor Ashly Burch's portrayal, employing a robotic text-to-speech quality. Her facial animations are stiff, lacking the naturalism of her in-game counterpart. During the conversation, Aloy reveals her identity as a clone of Dr. Elizabeth Sobeck, discussing her unique perspective on this revelation.

The demo seamlessly transitions into the *Horizon Forbidden West* game world, continuing the conversation within the game's environment. The juxtaposition of conversing with a character the player controls is striking, and the irony of using Aloy, given the *Horizon* narrative, is readily apparent.

The prototype, developed with Guerrilla Games, serves as an internal demonstration of Sony's AI capabilities. While promising, Sony hasn't confirmed plans to integrate this technology into consumer products, and its feasibility within current PS5 games remains unclear.

This development isn't surprising, given the industry-wide exploration of AI technology. Microsoft's commitment to AI, including its Muse AI for game design, exemplifies this trend. However, generative AI faces criticism regarding ethical concerns, rights issues, and its ability to consistently produce engaging content. Keywords Studios' failed attempt at an entirely AI-generated game underscores these challenges.

Despite these challenges, industry leaders like EA and Capcom are actively exploring generative AI's potential, highlighting its perceived importance for younger generations seeking personalized gaming experiences. Asad Qizilbash, Head of PlayStation Productions and Head of Product at PlayStation Studios, emphasizes the significance of AI-driven personalization for Gen Z and Gen Alpha gamers.

Activision's recent admission of using generative AI for some *Call of Duty: Black Ops 6* assets, amidst criticism over an AI-generated loading screen, further illustrates the complex landscape of AI integration in game development.

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