A recent leaked video featuring a generative AI version of Aloy from the PlayStation’s Horizon series has sparked quite a buzz. While the AI rendition of Aloy is undeniably impressive from a tech standpoint, it’s missing the familiar voice of Ashly Burch, who has long been associated with bringing this beloved character to life. Instead, the AI uses a text-to-speech program, leaving Burch and the gaming community with a mix of emotions.
Burch was assured by Guerrilla Games that her voice and facial data weren’t used for this AI version. Despite that reassurance, she is uneasy about what this means for the future of artistic performance in gaming. “I’m worried about game performance as an art form,” she expressed. Her concerns also touch on the broader issue of voice actors’ rights in this new AI-driven era, highlighting the importance of consent and transparency when it comes to replicating performances.
In the leaked video, the AI version of Aloy answers questions posed by Sony Interactive’s software engineering director, Sharwan Raghiebardajal. The AI provides basic gameplay tips, like identifying nearby creatures and their weaknesses—tasks that players can typically handle themselves in the game.
This development comes at a time when major publishers are increasingly leaning on generative AI for various aspects of game development, including design and voice acting. The ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike, which is nearing its first anniversary, underscores the tension between actors and companies like WB Games and Take-Two, who are hesitant to change their stance on AI-generated voice replicas.
For Burch, this situation highlights a potential threat to actors’ livelihoods, particularly for those who are just starting out. “It hurts my heart,” she admitted. “I love this industry and this art form so much. I want there to be a new generation of actors and incredible game performances. If we don’t win, then that future is really compromised.”
So far, Sony hasn’t commented on the leaked AI Aloy video or indicated any plans to incorporate this technology into future PlayStation products. Their silence might be telling in itself.
