AI in Gaming

Scottish Games Network

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Scotland has been a leader in video game development since the early 1990s when a tiny line of lemmings put the country on the global games map. Since then, Scottish-based developers have continued to innovate, applying their expertise in AI to push the boundaries of possibility and transform the way games are developed and played.

AI is the driving force behind some of the world’s most memorable gaming moments, from Pac-Man’s ectoplasmic enemies in 1980, through to the epic living, breathing city in 1997’s original Grand Theft Auto courtesy of Rockstar Games.

AI allows gamers to pit their wits against computer-controlled opponents and makes it possible for developers to create complex ecosystems, from the deepest dungeons to an entire universe. From the simplest ‘hyper-casual’ mobile games to sophisticated multi-player experiences, the use of AI in the industry continues to grow.

Today, two Scottish companies are among a thriving AI community at the forefront of video game technology.

Kythera’s comprehensive AI platform supports many of the world’s most popular development engines including Unreal and Lumberyard and provides the AI behind Wolcen Studios’ bestseller Lords of Mayhem.

Mercuna’s leading-edge navigation and route-finding technology supports both the Unity and Unreal engines and features in the 2020 RPG Maneater produced by Tripwire