Ashly Burch, who plays Aloy in the Horizon games, has commented on the AI version of her character, a behind-the-scenes video of which was recently leaked into the public domain.
Image Source: PlayStation
According to Birch, Guerrilla Games (the developer of the Horizon series) assured the actress that her data (voice, appearance) was not used for the prototype, and the AI version of Aloy itself is not in active development.
Still, Birch is concerned. Not because the technology exists or because companies want to use it. Not for herself or her career specifically, but for “the art form” in general.
«”I can imagine a video that uses someone’s data. Someone’s voice, or face, or movements. And that prospect… makes me incredibly sad. Heartbreaking. Scary,” Birch said.
AI version of Aloy answers user’s questions with robotic voice
However, artists have a way to fight back. The SAG-AFTRA union strike against gaming companies, which has been ongoing since last summer, is aimed precisely at regulating the use of AI in games.
Birch elaborated: “We are currently fighting for [companies] to have our consent to create an AI version of one of us. We deserve fair compensation and notice of how you are using the AI double.”
«”I love this industry and this art form so much, and I want to see the next generation of actors, so many incredible roles. I want to keep doing this, but if we don’t win, this future is in serious jeopardy,” Birch concluded.
Birch’s full address