This year, generative AI made notable strides in mainstream gaming, although its integration was often awkward and led to subpar results. Players encountered mispronounced lines in titles like *Arc Raiders*, witnessed a smudgy loading screen in *Anno 117*, and experienced unexpected dialogue from a sweary Darth Vader in *Fortnite*. A particularly evident instance of AI’s limitations appeared in *Where Winds Meet*, a wuxia-themed RPG that connected minor NPCs to AI chatbots, generating results that were bland and occasionally absurd.

While many players and readers expressed skepticism about the implementation of AI-driven NPCs, feeling that they detracted from personal storytelling, others found allure in the potential for interaction. Some argued that using AI could offer unique engagement with NPCs that traditional design could not achieve. Despite mixed reactions, *Where Winds Meet* maintained high player engagement, with over 100,000 daily players.

Looking ahead, the integration of AI into game narratives appears poised to grow. Larian Studios’ founder Swen Vinke announced plans to utilize generative AI in the pre-production of *Divinity*, their first major title since *Baldur’s Gate 3*, igniting discussions around the ethical use and future of AI in gaming. Experts were consulted to explore the implications of AI chatbots in gaming, with diverse viewpoints emerging.

Meghna Jayanth, a prominent writer and narrative designer, criticized the use of AI chatbots, describing them as “horrible and boring.” She emphasized that the beauty of games lies in crafted narratives and the unique human connection they create. Similarly, Max Kreminski raised concerns about LLM-based chatbots, stating they often lack originality and compromise narrative integrity, leading to weaker gaming experiences. However, Kreminski also suggested that LLMs could foster new gameplay experiences when thoughtfully integrated beyond traditional genres.

Dan Griliopoulos shared practical insights, predicting a rise in AI-powered NPCs but emphasizing the need for narrative designers to craft tailored backstories and character depths rather than relying on generic AI outputs. He acknowledged the cultural shift this would require in the industry.

Younès Rabii and Chris Gardiner brought attention to the ethical and practical challenges posed by AI. Rabii critiqued the notion of AI as an easy solution for game dialogue, asserting that meaningful storytelling relies on human effort, creativity, and specificity. Gardiner highlighted the fundamental limitations of AI in capturing the nuances of human experience and meaning, which are critical for compelling narratives.

Despite the variety of opinions, a common thread of skepticism ran through discussions about AI’s role in future game development. Many experts shared a vision of a gaming landscape that prioritizes genuine human creativity and originality over automated solutions, advocating for more robust stories that resonate on a deeper level.