The global gaming industry is worth billions of dollars every year, and developers are always keen to explore developing technologies to improve the overall gaming experience for consumers.
Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) have featured in a lot of new games to improve gameplay, but have also been used during development, and with marketing.
We take a look at some of the ways that AI has helped to redefine the gaming industry below.
The Top Ways AI is Improving the Gaming Industry
Modern gaming is adaptable and reactive to consumer needs and abilities. Whether titles are played on consoles, PCs, or mobile devices, AI and ML have helped to create an immersive experience for gamers to enjoy high-quality gaming.
Security and Customer Service
Modern gaming often includes in-app purchases and requires player information to make payments. AI can help with security and resolving potential issues that customers face.
The betting industry has used AI to improve gameplay for customers, with AI-generated dealers and improved gameplay during bonus rounds on slots.
Online betting expert Sergio Zammit regularly reviews online casinos and cites security, customer service, and payment methods as some of the most important factors when choosing a new site. (Source: https://cryptonews.com/cryptocurrency/best-bitcoin-casinos/)
Knowing a site is secure and offers a variety of payment methods that make deposits and withdrawals quick and easy can allow consumers to enjoy their experience without worrying.
If something does go wrong, AI customer service systems can help with the most common queries or direct customers to the correct departments to get the assistance they require.
Better Competition and Tailored Experiences
Lots of modern games offer online, multiplayer modes where players can compete with people from all around the world. There will also be single-player modes that rely on computer-generated competitors. AI can be used to offer competition that reacts to how you play, making it a much more realistic experience.
Tailored gaming experiences create a more immersive gaming experience and use algorithms to adjust difficulty settings to suit the player and create in-game experiences based on previous actions and preferences.
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Content Generation
Reactive gameplay that responds to player actions is a huge part of modern gaming. Previously, a player could expect the same results every time they played a game with a linear narrative, the open-world aspect of modern gaming requires more adaptive technology to maintain the game’s quality while sticking to storylines.
Content generation with AI has also helped game developers create new titles by using algorithms to create conceptual designs and expansions. These can then be fine-tuned by human hands to ensure they meet the rigorous standards that operators have in place.
Improved Gameplay Through AI Analysis
Data analysis is crucial to game development. AI and ML algorithms provide an effective way for game ecosystems to be checked and bugs to be resolved.
Protection Against Cheating
Cheating on multiplayer gaming platforms can have huge repercussions for the operator, with players suffering from poor gaming experiences if other players are able to benefit from unfair advantages.
AI technology can be used to analyze player activity to identify patterns and detect cheating.
Many augmented reality (AR) mobile games also generate content based on player locations. Players who use systems to provide false locations can gain unfair advantages, and operators who identify those trying to dupe the system will typically ban them.
It is not just recreational gamers that face penalties for cheating, with professionals facing long or lifetime bans.
Personalized Marketing
Using AI and ML to personalize the gaming experience has improved customer satisfaction. Many operators have realized the power these systems hold by putting them to work on marketing campaigns.
This is an excellent way for game developers to get market information for new titles, but also works by recommending games or in-game purchases that suit player needs and preferences.
The gambling industry has been quick to act on this type of marketing. Online betting operators can now send out tailored promotions and advertisements based on a player’s previous actions.
Rather than sending out mass marketing emails with general information or offers, AI technology can tailor promotions for each customer. This has resulted in improved engagements from marketing campaigns, and can also be implemented in real-time to capitalize on active sessions.
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Intelligent NPCs
The term NPC (non-player character) has found its way into modern language to describe someone perceived to have little or no independent thought.
In its original meaning, it represents the characters that make up the background of popular games. Yes, much like extras in a movie with a non-speaking role.
AI improves NPC interactions with players, making the game universe a more realistic experience for players. Previously, these characters would have pre-programmed behaviors and reactions, leading to predictable gameplay.
It is now possible for NPCs to exhibit human-like behaviors and emotions. They can also remember encounters with players in RPGs. This can result in completely different experiences for players every time they play the game.
The AI Being Used in Modern Gaming
Different types of AI are being implemented in the gaming industry, including the following examples.
Machine Learning Artificial Intelligence
ML AI is used to allow NPCs to adapt to certain situations and learn from experiences to provide more realistic gameplay.
Rule-Based Artificial Intelligence
Rule-based AI is designed to follow predefined instructions and ensure the game sticks to certain conditions. This is essential to games using AI so environments can stay under control.
Finite State Machines (FSM)
FSMs are used to control NPC behaviors and ensure they behave in a way that drives the game’s narrative. This can include Police or enemies changing from patrols to engaging in a chase with the player.
Pathfinding Artificial Intelligence
Pathfinding AI is similar to how maps on mobile devices find the most efficient route for you to travel. They guide NPCs and take in different terrains or obstacles in the environment.
Behavior Trees (BTs)
BTs create a hierarchical structure for NPC behaviors, making sure their decisions make sense based on their role.
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Reinforcement Learning Artificial Intelligence
RL gives NPCs the ability to learn through trial and error, making it a more difficult opponent over time.
