AI in video games – curse or blessing for gamers?

In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) has become a permanent fixture in the world of video games. Whether as a dynamic opponent that makes game mechanics more challenging or as a part of the world that reacts to players' actions, AI has the potential to revolutionize the gaming experience. But as with any technology, there are also critical voices who fear that the use of AI in video games could spoil the fun. So does AI become a curse if it becomes too overpowered or unpredictable, or does it offer real added value and enrich the gaming experience? In this article, we take a look at the pros and cons of AI in video games and shed light on whether it actually makes the difference between a good game and a great one.

Blessing:

1. Enhanced game experience : AI can make the game world more alive and realistic. It allows NPCs (non-playable characters) to react to players' actions, resulting in dynamic, immersive experiences.
2. Difficulty Customizable : Many games use AI to adjust the difficulty level, allowing both beginners and experienced players to feel challenged without being overwhelmed.
3. Realistic opponents : In action or strategy games, AI-controlled opponents can be very challenging and provide a challenging alternative to other human players, especially when online multiplayer options are not available.
4. Storytelling : AI can create dynamic stories that evolve depending on the player's decisions. The AI ​​can make the narrative flexible and thus ensure more replay value.

Curse:

1. Unpredictable AI : Some players find the unpredictability of AI frustrating, especially when the AI ​​becomes too unrealistic or overpowered, making the game less fun.
2. Lack of human interaction : AI replaces human interaction in many games, which can reduce the sense of social connection in multiplayer games. AI often cannot provide the nuance and creativity of a human player.
3. Danger of microtransactions and pay-to-win : Some developers use AI-controlled enemies that are difficult to defeat to lure players into microtransactions to make the game easier. This can negatively affect the gaming experience.
4. Lack of innovation : There is a risk that AI will be used as a substitute for creative game mechanics that could drive real innovation in a game.

Conclusion:

Whether AI is a blessing or a curse depends on the type of game and the implementation. In well-designed, creative games, AI can be an asset and take the gaming experience to new levels. However, in less well-developed or commercial games, it can reduce the fun and compromise authenticity.