Actress Ashly Burch recently spoke out about the controversy surrounding the leaked AI Aloy footage from Horizon Forbidden West. Burch, known for her role as Aloy in the Horizon series along with other popular games, shared her concerns about the leaked footage in a video posted on her social media channels. She expressed her worries about the implications of using AI technology to replicate actors’ performances without their consent or fair compensation.
In the leaked footage, a Sony employee interacted with an on-screen AI version of Aloy, asking casual questions and receiving responses related to the game’s lore. Burch clarified that the demo did not feature any of her performance, as Guerrilla Games, the developer behind Horizon, owns the character of Aloy. Despite this assurance, Burch emphasized her broader concerns about the use of AI in the gaming industry.
Burch highlighted the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strikes, which focus on the need for protections regarding the use of AI to replicate actors’ likeness. She stressed the importance of obtaining consent, fair compensation, and transparency in utilizing AI technology to create digital doubles of performers. Burch’s heartfelt message resonated with her love for the gaming industry and her desire to see a new generation of actors thrive in creating memorable performances in games.
Expressing her support for the strike and the collective efforts to secure better protections for actors, Burch acknowledged the necessity of standing up for the future of the profession she cherishes. She made it clear that her concerns were not directed at specific game companies, including Guerrilla Games, but rather at the need for industry-wide safeguards to ensure the integrity and longevity of actors’ careers.
As the conversation around AI in gaming continues to evolve, developers like Microsoft and Take-Two Interactive have explored innovative uses of artificial intelligence in game development. However, recent controversies, such as Activision’s admission of using generative AI for in-game content in Call of Duty, have sparked debates about the ethical implications of AI technology in the gaming landscape.
Burch’s poignant remarks serve as a reminder of the complex intersection between art, technology, and labor rights in the gaming industry. Her advocacy for fair treatment and respect for actors’ performances underscores the ongoing challenges and opportunities in shaping a more equitable future for the gaming community.
With the support of industry professionals like Ashly Burch, the dialogue regarding AI in gaming will continue to evolve, driving meaningful change and ensuring that the creative contributions of actors are valued and protected. The journey towards a more inclusive and ethical gaming environment requires collaborative efforts and a shared commitment to upholding the principles of fairness and respect for all individuals involved in the creative process.
