Sony's AI Character Prototype Leaks, Featuring Horizon's Aloy
A confidential tech demo reportedly from PlayStation Studios' advanced research division has surfaced, showcasing an experimental AI-driven version of Horizon's protagonist Aloy before being removed from YouTube.
The Verge reported the video was pulled following a copyright claim from digital enforcement firm Muso, which lists Sony as a client - strongly suggesting authenticity. Sony has not yet responded to official inquiries.
The AI Character Demonstration
The prototype reportedly features PlayStation engineering director Sharwin Raghoebardajal conversing with an AI-powered Aloy through voice commands and synthesized facial animations. The technical stack includes:
- OpenAI's Whisper for speech recognition
- GPT-4 and Llama 3 for dialogue processing
- Sony's EVS for voice synthesis
- Sony's Mockingbird for facial animation
In the demo, the AI character displayed robotic speech patterns distinct from Ashly Burch's original performance, with stiff facial movements during conversations about Horizon's storyline elements.
Industry Context
This leak emerges as major publishers increasingly explore AI applications:
- Microsoft recently unveiled Muse for game design ideation
- Capcom is testing generative AI for environmental design
- EA considers AI fundamental to operations
However, the technology faces skepticism following failed experiments like Keywords Studios' all-AI game attempt and controversy surrounding Call of Duty's "AI slop" incident.
PlayStation's Strategic Position
While confirming this as an internal prototype developed with Guerrilla Games, Sony hasn't announced concrete AI implementation plans for current PS5 titles.
PlayStation executive Asad Qizilbash has previously emphasized AI's potential for personalization, particularly for younger audiences expecting dynamic interactions with game worlds.
The demo represents Sony's exploration amid growing industry competition around interactive AI, though significant technical and creative challenges remain before such systems could enhance rather than diminish player experiences.
