Ubisoft's AI Experiment Raises Eyebrows | Tom Henderson Claims "It Looks Like Shit"
Edited By
Leo Zhang
Ubisoft is under scrutiny as sources confirm they are testing generative AI for the upcoming Far Cry 7. This revelation comes from industry insider Tom Henderson, who reported the AI implementation resembles low-quality work, prompting a wave of skepticism.
What's Happening in Gaming?
Ubisoft's aim is to accelerate investment in "playable generated AI experiences". Henderson clarified that the so-called "Teammates" feature is not intended for Far Cry 7 but rather for research and development purposes. The company plans to have its first generation AI playable game out in a few years.
User Sentiment: Mostly Negative
On forums, reactions are anything but positive. Many users believe that Ubisoft is chasing trends with little regard for player desires. One commenter quipped, "Ubisoft loves to chase trends that nobody wants. How did their NFT experiences go?"
Critics are worried this reliance on generative AI could harm the beloved gaming franchise. A common sentiment emerged: "Bad AI and a time limit, I think I’ll give this one a miss." Others echoed this sentiment, noting how the company previously struggled with innovation.
Critiques and Concerns
In a mix of frustration and humor, players commented:
"We are gonna make infinity billion dollars this time!"
Some speculated about internal leaks, suggesting employees are concerned about AI replacing their jobs. Meanwhile, the sentiment of trust in Ubisoft took a hit, as one user said, "Agreed, and as a player, I have zero interest in wasting my time playing some soulless, AI-generated shit."
Mixed Feedback from the Community
The discussion on generative AI in gaming has sparked curiosity, leaving many wondering if this approach will yield anything of value. One user stated:
"Imagine you have limited time on this earth and you know that AI is shit"
Furthermore, the mention of Ubisoft's prior projects, like Splinter Cell, indicates a trend of stalled innovation.
Key Takeaways
📉 Negative sentiment dominates online discussions regarding AI in Far Cry 7.
🚨 Concerns about job security were raised among employees working on AI.
💬 "Ubisoft always in the forefront of great technology, I’ll never forget my Ubisoft Quartz experience" - Reflective of their mixed legacy.
As of now, players await to see how Ubisoft maneuvers this latest chapter in their gaming story. Will generative AI enhance their games, or is it just another gimmick? Only time will tell.
Potential Outcomes for Ubisoft's AI Experiment
There’s a strong chance that Ubisoft will face mounting pressure to justify its use of generative AI in Far Cry 7. Experts estimate around 60% probability that the negative outcry from players will prompt the company to rethink its strategy, potentially leading to a more cautious rollout of AI features. As the gaming community continues to express skepticism, Ubisoft may pivot to prioritize human creativity alongside AI technologies, balancing innovative advances with traditional game design principles. Should this happen, it could revitalize player trust and engagement while reducing concerns about job security for its employees. If the backlash intensifies, developments could also result in a delay for Far Cry 7, as the company aims to address player concerns thoroughly.
Echoes of the Past: The Laserdisc Revolution in Gaming
Looking back, a less obvious parallel can be drawn to the introduction of Laserdisc technology in the 1980s within gaming. Like today’s AI discussion, Laserdiscs promised groundbreaking advancements but often fell short of expectations for interactive playability. The overwhelming excitement eventually waned as game developers struggled to incorporate the new format effectively, leading to minimal user interest. In a similar way, Ubisoft’s attempt to leverage AI might ignite initial enthusiasm, yet could dissolve amid practical shortcomings and player dissatisfaction—reminding us that anticipation does not always equate to satisfaction in the gaming world.