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By Manish Pansari
The hype surrounding AI in the gaming industry has been increasing for some time. Both data science and AI have brought significant changes to the gaming industry. These developments have not only enriched the gaming experience, but also contributed to the reform of the design processes. The last two years have been particularly exciting for the Indian gaming industry thanks to the paradigm shift in the general consumer behavior of the tech-savvy youth and some promising technological developments.
Role of data science in gaming
Data science is critical to improving and improving overall gaming performance and experience. It helps analyze development strategies and optimize game efficiency. Data-driven technologies enable developers to derive essential patterns, trends and user behavior from complex data, enabling continuous monitoring of performance and user engagement. Machine learning (ML) tools also support the development of predictive models to optimize game conditions. Retention, or the number of players returning to the game, is a critical aspect of maintaining game performance. Integrating analytics software such as GameAnalytics, Firebase or Mixpanel gives developers insight into player engagement and event data, enabling them to make informed decisions and improve game performance. Continuous innovation and commitment are critical to delivering an amazing user experience. User experience (UX) and user interface (UI) are also crucial for gamers. Games like Call of Duty, GTA, Hitman, and Assassin’s Creed have garnered a huge following due to their engaging storyline, interface, and quality graphics. Hence, having proper market strategy and research is imperative.
Different types of AI used in gaming
Different games use different types of AI to create realistic and immersive gaming experiences. This ensures players stay engaged. For example, a racing game has a different type of AI than a shooting game. The most common AI technique in racing games is rubber banding. Rubber banding is used to maintain interest in the game and ensure racing remains competitive.
Another important AI technique is pathfinding, which allows non-player characters (NPCs) to realistically navigate through game worlds. For example, if an enemy is chasing the player, NPCs will detect obstacles and find alternate routes to reach the player. Game developers can customize difficulty levels and implement different levels of AI to challenge players – modes like Easy, Medium, and Hard offer different levels of AI development. Designing AI programs is a complex task that requires considering various aspects that affect the overall gaming experience.
What is easier to learn? Data Science or AI?
Learning data science involves working with datasets and using complex data for decision making. Tools like Flurry or FireBase can be used to make informed decisions and improve game performance, focusing on metrics like customer retention, average revenue per user, daily active users, monthly active users, etc.
In contrast, learning AI can be comparatively more challenging, as complex logic must be designed and an immersive gaming experience created that feels natural rather than purely computer-driven. One has to deal with state machines, different behaviors, levels of interaction, etc., which adds to the overall complexity. It is important to properly implement AI in your games. If not properly designed, the different types of algorithms implemented in a game will not be an enjoyable experience for the user. A strong AI ensures an excellent replay experience. Games like Dark Soul series and Sekiro games have difficult AI, but players don’t get bored. They see this as a challenge. So having strong AI is both frustrating and fun – it keeps hardcore gamers playing the games together for hours on end while doing almost the same repetitive tasks.
Games that demonstrate brilliant data science and AI applications
Several games including Candy Crush, Clash of Clans, Need for Speed series, Red Dead Redemption, Chess, etc. have effectively used data science and AI to enhance the gaming experience. For example, Candy Crush has undergone extensive data science and research to understand user behavior. The result is a game that excels in core mechanics, game design, and sound, ensuring user engagement. Open-world games like Red Dead Redemption, Grand Theft Auto, and Watch Dogs feature impressive AI implementations, creating a believable, immersive experience that resonates with gamers.
The convergence of data science and AI has opened up limitless possibilities for the gaming industry, transforming games into immersive worlds that challenge and captivate us. By leveraging data-driven insights and intelligent AI algorithms, developers can create personalized gaming experiences that engage players on a deeper level. As we venture into the future, it’s important to remember that the real power lies in the hands of creative visionaries using this technology. With endless horizons where the virtual and real converge, gaming becomes the canvas for extraordinary adventures and the realization of our wildest dreams.
The author is Senior Vice President, Business (DSML), Scaler
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