The Evolution Of AI In Gaming
Exhibit|August 2024
The Crafting Perfect NPC
Bidisha Mitra
The Evolution Of AI In Gaming

In the ever-evolving realm of video games, the concept of NPCs, or non-playable characters, has transformed significantly. Once mere background elements, NPCs have now become integral to immersive storytelling and gameplay. This evolution is primarily driven by the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI), a technology that has not only given NPCs a lifelike quality but also enhanced their intelligence, responsiveness, and believability. Let's explore the role of AI in gaming, particularly in shaping NPC behaviour, and examine some games that epitomise this technological advancement.

UNDERSTANDING AI IN NPCS

AI in NPCs is all about creating characters that can think, react, and interact with players and their environment in a way that mirrors real-life interactions. The key elements of AI-driven NPCs include:

PATHFINDING

This allows NPCs to navigate the game world efficiently, avoiding obstacles and finding the shortest routes. Algorithms like A* (A-star) and Dijkstra's algorithm are commonly used for this purpose.

DECISION MAKING

Utilising techniques such as Finite State Machines (FSMs), Behavior Trees, and, more recently, Machine Learning, NPCs can make decisions based on various stimuli and conditions. This allows them to exhibit complex behaviours like hiding, attacking, or seeking help.

EMOTION AND PERSONALITY

Modern games often incorporate AI that simulates emotions and personality traits, leading to more nuanced interactions. These NPCs can have moods that affect their behaviour and dialogue, adding depth to their character.

ADAPTIVE LEARNING

Some advanced NPCs can learn from the player's actions and adapt their strategies. This creates a more dynamic and challenging experience, as NPCs can change their tactics based on what the player has done previously.

Bu hikaye Exhibit dergisinin August 2024 sayısından alınmıştır.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.

Bu hikaye Exhibit dergisinin August 2024 sayısından alınmıştır.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.

EXHIBIT DERGISINDEN DAHA FAZLA HIKAYETümünü görüntüle
TOP 3 AUDIOPHILES - TOP 3 EARBUDS
Exhibit

TOP 3 AUDIOPHILES - TOP 3 EARBUDS

APPLE AIRPODS PRO 2, SONY WF-1000XM5, SAMSUNG GALAXY BUDS3 PRO

time-read
1 min  |
November 2024
TOP 3 SCREEN ADVENTURES - TOP 3 TVS
Exhibit

TOP 3 SCREEN ADVENTURES - TOP 3 TVS

SONY BRAVIA 2 43-INCH GOOGLE TV, XIAOMI MI 55-INCH OLED TV, SAMSUNG 65-INCH 4K SMART OLED TV

time-read
1 min  |
November 2024
TOP 3 SHUTTERBUGS - TOP CAMERAS AND ACCESSORIES
Exhibit

TOP 3 SHUTTERBUGS - TOP CAMERAS AND ACCESSORIES

DJI RS 3 MINI, SONY ALPHA 7 IV, LEICA Q3 43

time-read
1 min  |
November 2024
TOP 3 TRENDSETTERS SMART WATCHES
Exhibit

TOP 3 TRENDSETTERS SMART WATCHES

APPLE WATCH SERIES 10, SAMSUNG GALAXY WATCH 7, ONEPLUS WATCH 2

time-read
1 min  |
November 2024
TOP 3 SMARTPHONES (UNDER 50K)
Exhibit

TOP 3 SMARTPHONES (UNDER 50K)

POCO F6, ONEPLUS NORD 4, INFINIX GT20 PRO

time-read
1 min  |
November 2024
TOP 3 SMARTPHONES (ABOVE 50K AND BELOW 1 LAC)
Exhibit

TOP 3 SMARTPHONES (ABOVE 50K AND BELOW 1 LAC)

ONEPLUS 12, VIVO X100 PRO, VIVO V40 PRO

time-read
1 min  |
November 2024
TOP 3 SMARTPHONES (ABOVE 1 LAC)
Exhibit

TOP 3 SMARTPHONES (ABOVE 1 LAC)

APPLE IPHONE 16 PRO MAX, SAMSUNG GALAXY S24 ULTRA, GOOGLE PIXEL 9 PRO XL

time-read
1 min  |
November 2024
BANG FOR YOUR BUCK
Exhibit

BANG FOR YOUR BUCK

OnePlus has consistently been a reliable brand for wireless earphones, particularly in the sub-₹10,000 segment, and their latest launch, the OnePlus Nord Buds 3, stands out as a compelling option for those seeking quality audio without straining their budget.

time-read
2 dak  |
November 2024
A BUDGET-FRIENDLY PERFORMER WITH A FEW FLAWS
Exhibit

A BUDGET-FRIENDLY PERFORMER WITH A FEW FLAWS

Redmi Buds 5C stands out as an affordable TWS option with active noise cancellation (ANC), a lightweight build, and long battery life. But is it perfect?

time-read
2 dak  |
November 2024
IS THE AFFORDABLE CONVERTIBLE WORTH YOUR MONEY
Exhibit

IS THE AFFORDABLE CONVERTIBLE WORTH YOUR MONEY

The laptop space is always pretty saturated, and that makes it difficult for devices to stand out. But the Aspire 3 Spin 14 has announced itself quite convincingly as a slim convertible within the reach of students and amateur users.

time-read
2 dak  |
November 2024