Evolution of Artificial Intelligence In Video Games

AI ON VIDEO GAMES

What is Artificial Intelligence?The term Artificial Intelligence (AI) was coined by John McCarthy in 1956As a NounThe Intelligence of Machines.As a FieldThe science and engineering of making intelligent machines.

How does AI apply to games?Game AI is game design, implemented.

The AI of Pong

One of the First Video GamesManufactured by AtariReleased in 1972Designed for 1 or 2 players.Essentially just table tennis in 2 dimensions.There is Logic to how the Computer moves the paddle.To simulate Human error the computer is designed to skip its adjustment every 8 frames.

Super Mario Bros. &Pac-Man

Developed by NintendoReleased in 1985Classic example of the Platformer

Developed by Namco Distributed by Midway (in US)Released: 1980Single player onlySimple maze game

Scripted AIEnemy units in the game are designed to follow a scripted pattern.Either move back and forth in a given location or attack a player if nearbyBecame a staple technique for AI design.

Sim CityDeveloped by MaxisPublished by Electronic ArtsReleased in 1989First in a series of Simulation Games which are often at the forefront of AI technology

A Living WorldThe player is able to manipulate certain aspects of the city.The population of the City acts somewhat autonomously.Furthermore the game will simulate random disasters.

The SimsDeveloped by MaxisPublished by Electronic ArtsReleased in 2000A life simulation game in which the player has control over a semi-autonomous people.

Complex charactersThe Sims characters can be manipulated by the player but will also carry out day to day tasks on their own.Characters also have defined needs and personality traits that dictate how they act in given situations.

Complex Object InteractionsCharacters are able to interact with an arrangement of objects in the environment due to unique object logic.

Black and WhiteDeveloped by Lionhead StudiosPublished by EA gamesReleased in 2001Simulation game in which you play God.Similar to Sim CityYou had more control over the environment and the people in the gameYou could also create armies and wage war

AI LearningYou could control and train large creaturesYou could then punish or reward the creatures based on how they complete tasks.Over time the creatures will learn how you wish tasks to be done based on how they are treated.

Dynamic Enemy AIEnemies reacted in dynamic ways.Different enemies would react differently in different situations.Enemies would work together against the player.

AI DirectorThe game utilizes an AI director that will change the game based on how well the player(s) are doing.This can make the game more or less difficult for players with different skill levels.This also changes the events of the game between different play sessions.

Unbalanced AINon Playable characters (NPCs) and enemies within the game world react dynamically with the player and each other.

Problems With AI in GamingThere are a number of issues that prevent Video Games from being the best area for the evolution of AIDespite the how far AI in games has come over time no game is perfect.There are a number of reasons as to why this is and will always be the case.

Sequels

Release ScheduleTimeThe game has to be released at some point and not everything that needs to be addressed can be addressed.MoneyGames are expensive to make so items are generally prioritized to put the most effort into what is considered most important.

Is it fun?Games are about EntertainmentWhile the AI in a game might be very advanced it might not necessarily be entertaining.

Video Games advantage & disadvantage?

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