PUBG Unveils Chatty Co-op Buddy Powered by Generative AI: Designed to Play and Talk Like a Human Teammate
In an exciting development for gamers, PUBG creator Krafton has announced a significant addition to its gaming experience with the introduction of what it describes as Co-Playable Characters (CPCs). These AI-driven companions are engineered to mimic human teammates in their actions, communication, and responses, offering a more immersive gameplay experience.
This groundbreaking technology harnesses an on-device small language model (SLM) and integrates Nvidia’s ACE technology, leveraging generative AI to facilitate real-time conversations and reactions to player voice commands. Essentially, these are highly sophisticated AI partners with built-in chatbot capabilities.
Nvidia’s ACE technology is instrumental in this advancement, enabling “companions that comprehend and support player goals, and enemies that adapt dynamically to player tactics.” The language model that powers these companions is capable of planning at human-like speeds, crucial for realistic decision-making in gaming scenarios. Additionally, multi-modal SLMs enhance these AI characters with the ability to hear audio cues and perceive their environment, providing a more lifelike presence in the game.
How Co-Playable Characters Enhance PUBG Gameplay
How will these Co-Playable Characters function within PUBG? A demonstration video shared by Krafton reveals that players can partner with a “PUBG Ally,” an AI companion responsive to direct commands. Whether you need assistance locating specific armor or require immediate support during intense gameplay, your PUBG Ally is designed to listen and act accordingly.
Moreover, these AI buddies aren’t just about business; they come complete with personality. For instance, the PUBG Ally might engage in light-hearted banter to keep the gaming experience entertaining. Imagine a robotic voice quipping, “I carry for a living,” adding a touch of humor—albeit a slightly eerie one—to your virtual adventures.
Currently, Krafton has not announced a specific release date for when PUBG Ally will become available to players. However, the promise of additional Co-Playable Characters hints at a significant evolution in the way we interact with digital teammates.
Beyond PUBG: Expanding AI Companions
Krafton’s ambitions for this technology extend beyond PUBG. The company is also planning to integrate similar AI technology into its upcoming Sims-like life simulation game, inZoi. In this new title, Co-Playable Characters referred to as “Smart Zoi” will function as human-like NPCs designed to support and enhance the player’s character within the game’s universe.
InZoi’s Smart Zoi NPCs will bring the same level of interaction and human-like behavior to the simulation world, offering players in-game relationships and interactions that feel more genuine and engaging. This approach aims to redefine how players interact with non-playable characters by making them not just part of the scenery, but integral to the gaming experience.
This move by Krafton marks a significant step forward in the fusion of gaming and AI, where player experience is enriched by the presence of companions that can strategize, support, and even entertain like a real human counterpart. As these AI devices continue to evolve, they promise to offer unique experiences that bridge the gap between digital and real-world interactions.
As the world of gaming increasingly leans towards more immersive and interactive environments, the introduction of Co-Playable Characters could set a new standard in game design and player engagement. Whether in PUBG or inZoi, Krafton is paving the way for a future where AI companions are not just controlled by algorithms, but seem to live and breathe alongside us in the digital spaces we love to explore.
