Ubisoft, a major player in the video game industry, has unveiled ‘Teammates,’ a first-person shooter that showcases AI-powered squadmates and an AI assistant named Jaspar. The game, built using the Snowdrop Engine, which also powers titles like The Division 2 and Star Wars Outlaws, features an AI assistant named Jaspar and two AI squadmates called Pablo and Sofia. Players can issue natural voice commands to direct the squadmates in combat or puzzle-solving, while Jaspar handles mission tracking and guidance. The project is developed by the same team behind Ubisoft’s Neo NPCs, which were demonstrated at GDC 2024.
The announcement comes at a time when Ubisoft is moving away from its earlier foray into NFTs and the metaverse, which faced significant criticism and led to a strategic shift. The company’s previous initiatives in these areas were met with backlash from players and investors, prompting a reevaluation of its long-term strategy. ‘Teammates’ represents a renewed focus on AI research and its application in gaming, aiming to enhance player experience through innovative technology. The game is set to be a demonstration of Ubisoft’s commitment to leveraging AI for more immersive and interactive gaming experiences.
With the gaming industry increasingly embracing AI for game development, Ubisoft’s ‘Teammandates’ could position the company as a leader in this emerging field. The project highlights the company’s attempt to balance technological innovation with player expectations and market realities. While the company’s previous ventures into NFTs and the metaverse were met with skepticism, the current focus on AI research underscores a strategic realignment. As the industry moves toward more advanced AI integration, Ubisoft’s approach could influence the broader gaming landscape, setting new standards for interactive and intelligent game experiences.