Leaked Internal Sony Video Uses Horizon's Aloy to Show AI-Powered PlayStation Character Prototype

A leaked internal video reveals Sony's experimentation with AI-powered PlayStation characters. The Verge reported on a video, allegedly from PlayStation Studios' advanced technology group, showcasing AI-powered Aloy from the *Horizon* games. The video's subsequent removal from YouTube following a copyright claim from Muso (a company listing Sony Interactive Entertainment as a client) suggests its legitimacy. IGN has reached out to Sony for comment.

The video, as reported by The Verge, features Sony Interactive Entertainment's director of software engineering, Sharwin Raghoebardajal, conversing with an AI-powered Aloy. The technology utilizes OpenAI's Whisper for speech-to-text, GPT-4 and Llama 3 for dialogue and decision-making, Sony's Emotional Voice Synthesis (EVS) system for speech, and Sony's Mockingbird technology for facial animation.

The conversation demonstrates the AI's capabilities, with Aloy exhibiting a robotic voice and somewhat stiff facial animations. While the AI accurately references Aloy's backstory, the lack of Ashly Burch's voice and the artificiality of the presentation are noticeable. The demo seamlessly transitions into the *Horizon Forbidden West* game world, showcasing the AI interacting within the game environment.

The prototype, developed with Guerrilla Games, serves as an internal demonstration of Sony's AI exploration. While the video highlights Sony's investment in AI-powered characters, the company hasn't confirmed plans for public integration, and its feasibility within current PS5 games remains uncertain.

Sony's efforts align with industry trends, as competitors like Microsoft (with its Muse AI) are also heavily investing in AI technology for game development. Generative AI, while promising, faces criticism regarding ethical concerns, rights issues, and its ability to consistently produce high-quality, engaging content. Keywords Studios' failed experiment with an entirely AI-generated game underscores these challenges.

Despite the challenges, industry leaders like EA and Capcom are actively exploring generative AI's potential. Asad Qizilbash, head of PlayStation Productions and head of product at PlayStation Studios, emphasized the importance of AI-driven personalization for Gen Z and Gen Alpha gamers, citing the potential for more engaging NPC interactions. Activision's recent admission of using generative AI for some *Call of Duty: Black Ops 6* assets, amidst criticism, further highlights the complex landscape of AI in game development.

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