Epic Games is expanding its Fortnite creative tools by introducing a suite of 36 non-player characters (NPCs) equipped with AI-powered voices and distinct personas. Beginning July 30, creators will be able to integrate these characters, which include recognizable figures such as Peely, Agent Jonesy, Fishstick, and Cuddle Team Leader, into their own custom islands.

The company stated that the voices for these new personas are derived from performances by independent professional actors. These performers have consented to the use of their work to train the voice models that generate spoken responses for the game's large language model (LLM)-driven characters.

This initiative follows Epic’s earlier experimentation with AI-voiced NPCs, most notably a Darth Vader character that utilized the voice of James Earl Jones with the approval of his estate. While that initial test faced minor challenges regarding character behavior, it paved the way for the current rollout.

Looking ahead, Epic Games expressed interest in incorporating the original voices of actors who have previously contributed to the Fortnite universe. The company noted that it plans to engage with relevant guilds and voice talent to explore potential collaborations that would bring these established voices into the broader Fortnite ecosystem. Creators have been testing their own AI-driven characters under a set of established safety guidelines since earlier this year.

Source: The Verge