"It's scary", voice actors criticize Xbox for use of AI in its games; they are afraid of losing their jobs

Xbox confirmed this week a partnership that will make possible the use of various artificial intelligence tools for the development of its upcoming games. Thanks to this, its developers will be able to create non-playable characters, stories, quests and more elements with procedural AI.

As expected, the announcement divided the opinion of gamers and, now, some voice actors also protested the controversial decision. Specifically, actors from Starfield and Star Wars Jedi: Survivor disapproved of the use of AI to generate NPCs, as it will affect the work and opportunities of voice actors, especially those who are just starting their careers.

Voice actors lash out at use of AI in Xbox games

The use of artificial intelligence in creative projects has sparked controversy worldwide. Now, Xbox is under the spotlight for wanting to incorporate new AI tools for the development of its upcoming games.

This idea was not to the liking of Elias Toufexis, an actor who has participated in franchises such as Starfield and Deus Ex. On his social networks, he was disappointed by the news and even gave a rather pessimistic advice to those interested in voice acting: better not to start your career.

"I've said it for years now. If you want to start a voice-acting career, don't bother. All those jobs of nameless background NPCs that gave us all our start in the industry… they're all going away. I'm already bitter," the actor commented.

Shelby Young, who voiced several characters in Star Wars Jedi: Survivor, agrees with that perspective. The actress commented that starting out in the industry with NPCs is the norm. For this reason, she believes that Microsoft and Xbox's project will take away the opportunity for many new voice actors. She also expressed concern about what will happen to the work of other creatives, such as writers.

"This is scary. Recording NPC's is how many voice actors cut their teeth in this industry. This will make it even harder for new talent to break into video games (which tbh can already be pretty difficult to begin with). I'm worried for game devs and writers as well," Young said.