AI
AI
Design
This presentation explores the evolution of AI in game design, from
its early beginnings to its transformative impact on modern
gaming.
by SUDEEP GOVINDHACHETTY
Introduction
AI has become an integral part of game design, revolutionizing the
way games are developed and played. Initially, AI in games was
simple, but it has evolved significantly over the years.
Developed by SEGA Entertainment, Developed by Revolution Software Developed by Rare Ltd., Goldeneye
Inc., Golden Axe featured enemy Ltd., this game touted its "Virtual 007 showcased AI with a sense
characters that reacted to the Theatre" AI system. The AI allowed simulation system. Characters
player's proximity. Enemies would characters to walk backward and could see and react to their
rush past the player and then forward through the game, though environment and other characters,
switch to homing mode, attacking it was not a major advancement. adding depth to gameplay.
from behind.
Real-Time Strategy (RTS) Games
Warcraft Warhammer: Dark Omen
Developed by Blizzard Entertainment, Warcraft was one Developed by Mindscape, this game featured robust
of the early RTS games to popularize pathfinding AI. formation motion AI. AI researchers were working on
Pathfinding algorithms allowed characters to navigate similar emotional models of soldiers in military
the game world efficiently. simulations at the time.
AI as a Game Feature
Creatures The Sims Black & White
Developed by Cyberlife Developed by Maxis Software, Developed by Lionhead Studios
Technology Ltd., Creatures Inc., The Sims used AI to simulate Ltd., this game used AI to allow
featured a complex AI system with the daily lives and interactions of players to interact with and
neural network-based brains for virtual characters. The AI-driven influence the behavior of virtual
each creature. The AI allowed for behavior of characters created an creatures. The game featured a
unique and sometimes immersive and engaging learning AI system that adapted
unpredictable behaviors. experience. based on player actions.
Modern AI in Games
Modern games employ a wide range of AI techniques to enhance
gameplay. Examples include bots in first-person shooters,
advanced AI in RTS games, and AI-driven features in sports and
driving games.
Sports and driving games face unique AI challenges, such as
dynamically calculating the fastest way around a race track. Role-
playing games (RPGs) with complex character interactions are
exploring new AI techniques to improve gameplay.
AI Techniques in Modern
Games
AI in games addresses three fundamental needs: character
movement, decision-making, and tactical/strategic thinking.