The use of artificial intelligence (AI) in gaming continues to spark debate. While many agree it’s here to stay, the prevailing sentiment is that AI should add genuine value and improve efficiency, rather than dominating to the point where games lose their unique human touch and feel like generic, AI-generated content.
Adding to this evolving landscape, the Japanese financial newspaper Nikkei reports that Square Enix is preparing to implement Google’s generative AI, Gemini, into its massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG), Dragon Quest X Online. The AI will manifest as an interactive ‘Chatty Slimey’ character.
According to the report, this Gemini-powered character will be an interactive element capable of conversing with players. It is designed to automatically generate responses by recognizing spoken words, text input, and even elements displayed on the game screen.
The primary goal for this Slimey is to offer guidance and assistance specifically related to Dragon Quest X gameplay, helping players progress. However, there are strict boundaries: it will not provide information or answer questions about the outside real world. Furthermore, conversations with Slimey will not be recorded or made public, and robust AI controls are in place to prevent inappropriate responses. Square Enix is currently recruiting participants for a beta test, which runs until the 30th of the month.
Takashi Anzai, head of development and operations for Dragon Quest X, likens the experience to playing with friends during childhood, believing it will greatly benefit newcomers. He states, “Just like when you played with your friends in your childhood, it becomes your personal companion. New players won’t feel lonely.”