Artificial intelligence (AI) is improving every aspect of everyday life, as it's now capable of translating language, automating processes, and even diagnosing diseases. Also, it's an exciting time to be a gamer, as AI may soon transform gaming experiences by creating fresh, changing content each time a person turns on their console or picks up a device. Despite much pushback in the past, Valve Software, the developers behind Steam, has recently announced that AI-generated games will soon become commonplace on the platform. Continue reading as we explore the evolving relationship between humans and machines through Valve Software.
The Future of Gaming
Most gamers often head to Steam, the world's largest gaming storefront, to download and play the coolest games on various devices. Yet, many might not have given AI a second thought when choosing games to install, as their biggest frustrations likely occur when steam won't open, which is a common issue. However, the strict rules are bound to have infuriated game development companies, as Steam's developer, Valve Software, has prohibited AI-developed games on the platform in the past due to the risk of copyright infringement. The good news is that it has since had a change of heart, establishing a new set of guidelines for new titles using AI-powered development tools. The move will undoubtedly open the door to better gaming experiences and encourage more game developers to embrace AI gaming, which will have a major influence on the future of gaming.
Why Did Valve Software Prohibit AI Games in the Past?
It appears Valve Steam has done a complete 360 on its guidelines. It will soon release the majority of games that use AI, paving the way for more exciting titles. Like many companies, the use of AI was a cause for concern due to unwanted outcomes humans cannot predict. For instance, a Stanford University study reported several generative machine learning models could pick up illegal material when scraping the internet when training data. The lack of control and technical issues has likely resulted in Valve Software, as well as other development companies, to approach AI with caution to gain a better understanding of the landscape.
What are the New Guidelines?
As humans become more familiar with AI and its capabilities, they can better understand its risks. In addition to researching the technology, Valve Software has discussed AI with game developers currently using AI and those building its tools to make an informed decision on its new guidelines. As a result, it has become more open and excited for the release of high-quality games using AI on Steam in the future.
However, all creators must disclose how AI software was used when developing and executing a game. For instance, they must state if it is pre-generated or live-generated. Pre-generated relates to creative content, such as code, music, or art using a generative program. Live-generated applies to any game using generative AI to create scenarios or assets during gameplay. However, all games with Adult Only Sexual Content created with live-generated AI are still prohibited on the platform. Also, developers are required to confirm that AI-powered games do not include infringing or illegal content.
How Humans Will Shape AI Content
For AI to advance, it is necessary to move away from a master-servant relationship and work towards becoming teammates. Humans can now support live-generated AI content, as Valve has released a brand-new system to encourage players to report suspected illegal material during gameplay.
There is no question the industry is split on its usage of generative AI content, but Steam's new policies could lead to a new wave of AI-powered titles that could transform gaming.