PUBG's First AI Partner: Co-Playable Character

Summary

• Krafton and Nvidia introduce PUBG's first "co-playable character" AI partner, designed to act like a human player.
• This AI companion communicates and dynamically adapts to the player's strategies and objectives.
• NVIDIA ACE technology powers the AI partner.

Krafton, the developer of PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds (PUBG), is introducing a groundbreaking innovation: the first "co-playable character" AI partner designed to mimic the actions and decision-making of a human player. This new PUBG AI companion leverages NVIDIA ACE technology, enabling it to interact and strategize like a real teammate.

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence has significantly impacted video game development. While AI has been used previously in games to control NPCs with pre-programmed behaviors and dialogue (often creating compelling antagonists in horror games), these implementations haven't fully replicated the experience of playing with a human partner. Past attempts often felt stiff and unnatural. NVIDIA's new technology aims to change that.

An Nvidia blog post unveiled this co-playable AI partner for PUBG, powered by NVIDIA ACE. This technology allows players to team up with an AI companion capable of dynamic adaptation to their strategies. The AI can assist with various tasks, such as locating loot, operating vehicles, and more, all while following player objectives. A sophisticated small language model underpins the AI, mimicking human decision-making processes.

PUBG's First Co-Playable AI Character Gameplay Trailer

The accompanying trailer showcases the AI companion responding to player commands, such as requests for specific ammunition. The AI proactively communicates, warning the player of nearby enemies and following instructions effectively. NVIDIA ACE technology will also power AI companions in other games, including Naraka: Bladepoint and inZOI.

This new technology, as highlighted in the blog post, opens exciting possibilities for game developers, allowing for entirely new gameplay designs. NVIDIA ACE could facilitate a new genre of gameplay driven by player prompts and AI-generated responses, potentially expanding the horizons of video game genres. While past uses of AI in gaming have faced criticism, this technology's potential to revolutionize the medium is undeniable.

PUBG has evolved significantly over time, and this new AI partner could be a game-changer. However, its ultimate effectiveness and impact on player experience remains to be seen.