AIGC Shines at ChinaJoy 2023
As artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, particularly ChatGPT, gain traction globally, AIGC (Artificial Intelligence-Generated Content) has taken center stage at ChinaJoy 2023. The event introduced a dedicated AIGC conference where industry experts and scholars from various sectors in China engaged in discussions on technological advancements and their implications.
Game developers highlighted how AIGC significantly boosts research and development efficiency and fosters innovation. During the four days of ChinaJoy, at least four AI-focused forums and numerous presentations demonstrated the practical applications of AI in the gaming industry. Notably, Shengqu Games showcased their VR and AI-driven product "AI Xinghe," designed for personalized social communication training for children with autism. Additionally, 37 Interactive Entertainment unveiled "Congmei," their first virtual character, employing physics simulations, motion capture, and facial recognition technologies.
AI has become integral to game development. A report from Gamma Data revealed that 64% of China's top 50 gaming revenue companies are investing in AIGC, with 27 integrating AI into their development and operational processes. The success of these AI strategies could shape the future of these companies.
Initially, concerns about AIGC replacing human jobs caused anxiety within the gaming community. Discussions about potential job losses, particularly among concept artists, trended on social media earlier this year. However, perspectives have evolved as industry professionals now view AIGC as a tool that enhances human creativity rather than a replacement.
Wang Ma, Vice President of Perfect World Games, acknowledged that early fears led to increased AI platform usage, but the sentiment has shifted to a more rational perspective. Professionals now recognize that AI-generated imagery still lacks the depth and quality of human creativity. "The anxiety has calmed; it isn't as dangerous as we thought," Wang stated, noting that the demand for computing power within his company has stabilized. The gaming industry is increasingly united in the belief that AI will transform productivity, allowing developers to create higher-quality games at reduced costs.
Game leads like Zhang Tao, Vice General Manager of Pokecity, compare the rise of generative AI to the invention of the steam engine, anticipating a significant improvement in production standards that will resolve the trade-offs between quality, cost, and speed. Xie Chenghong, Chairman and CEO of Layabox, predicts AIGC advancements could slash development costs by up to 90%, making game creation accessible to more individuals.
Revolutionizing Gameplay with AI
The gaming sector is capitalizing on AI's potential to save costs and enhance gameplay experiences. Reports indicate that over 87% of game companies foresee AI significantly reducing development expenses and improving creativity across art, music, and programming. Xiaojian, Chairman and CEO of Zhongyou Mobile, shared that their company has integrated AI into game scripts, 2D art, translation, and voice acting, resulting in productivity boosts of 20-30% and a 30-40% reduction in outsourcing costs. They aim to further expand AI applications to achieve a 50-60% reduction in outsourcing costs by year-end.
Beyond production, companies are harnessing AI to enrich player experiences. Many are incorporating generative AI into NPCs (non-player characters) for personalized gameplay that enhances immersion. At ChinaJoy, Zhongyou Mobile introduced "Xianjian World," featuring AI-driven intelligent NPC dialogues. However, Xiaojian noted challenges with current NPC AI training costs and effectiveness, acknowledging the promise of NVIDIA's ACE solution while awaiting its availability.
Looking to the future, the industry is optimistic about more sophisticated NPC interactions. Wang Ma emphasized that while current intelligent NPCs excel in conversation and interaction, true progress will involve NPCs performing autonomous actions, such as building shelters or managing businesses. This vision is aligned with Perfect World's ongoing AI development efforts.
As AI continues to advance, its integration into gaming is set to redefine the creative process and enhance player engagement, heralding an exciting new era for the industry.
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