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Based on recent disclosures from the game's developer, Arc Raiders appears to employ artificial intelligence technology for creating some dialogue. This development closely resembles the issue that arose with the developer's previous success, The Finals.

Title Introduction

Debuted on October 30 for Sony's console, PC, and Xbox Series X, Arc Raiders is described as a gentler entry point to the loot-and-extract category. Unlike complex games like Escape from Tarkov, it strives to offer a welcoming gameplay. The title has mostly received favorable reviews, currently holding a "very positive" score on Steam based on over 8,000 gamer feedback.

Development Approach

Within the game's official platform description, a notice regarding computer-assisted production draws comparisons: "During development, we might apply algorithmic and intelligent technologies to facilitate asset production. In all cases, the end product embodies the creativity and vision of our studio staff."

Previous Controversy

The Finals, a well-received competitive FPS known for its fluid combat and destructive environments, faced criticism for its adoption of generative tools prior to its official launch. In its October 2023 open beta, the game's audio designer mentioned in a online discussion that the company had employed AI tools for producing voice content. This revelation prompted immediate negative reaction from industry talent and industry professionals, who claimed that computer-created dialogue were of inferior standard compared to professional recordings and that such practices could displace performance opportunities.

Studio Explanation

Reacting to feedback, the company clarified that they had hired professional talent to create initial voice lines for The Finals, but enhanced these with TTS technology to produce supplementary material inspired by those original recordings. The developer's reasoning focused on the production efficiency gained from this approach.

Current Situation

Concerning Arc Raiders, the title's creative lead clarified that the game avoids utilizing artificial intelligence creation whatsoever," though he did not provide details on the precise meaning of the store notice. He did confirm, however, that the identical voice system used for The Finals was also utilized in Arc Raiders.

"We use a mix of recorded voice audio and content created through synthetic voice systems in our titles, depending on the requirements," stated a development team member. In certain cases, recording real scenes where actors get together — enabling performance dynamics and drama to shape the outcome — is something that provides substance to our game worlds that AI cannot replicate. Other times, especially when it concerns contextual in-game action call-outs, TTS allows us to have tailored VO where we could not such as due to production timelines."

Player Reactions

First reactions to the incorporation of AI technology in Arc Raiders has been relatively mixed, notably in the early days. Certain gamers have expressed strong opposition.

• "AI voices are a stain on an mostly outstanding title," commented one gamer in a forum post.
• I oppose that they implemented it in The Finals and am disappointed to hear they repeated it for this game," commented another.
• "It was quickly detectable in the dialogue delivery for one protagonist," noted a different user.

Nevertheless, other players have adopted a more tolerant position.

• "Don't give a fuck, they paid voice actors and applied it appropriately," commented one community member.
• This represents the most responsible as it currently exists, sadly," continued another.

The continuing controversy regarding artificial intelligence use in video game production appears set to persist as developers juggle creative efficiency with performance standards and responsible practices.