Voice actor Doug Cockle, known for his role as Geralt of Rivia in The Witcher game series, has expressed caution and frustration regarding the growing presence of artificial intelligence (AI) in the video game industry. While acknowledging that AI is inevitable, Cockle raised concerns about its potential misuse for nefarious purposes.
Cockle emphasized that his main worry is not with AI technology itself, but rather the unethical actions of individuals using it. He highlighted the use of AI to replicate human voices, stating that it was unethical to take someone’s voice, digitize it, and use it to say things the individual never said. This not only affects his income but also impacts other voice actors who face similar challenges.
The actor revealed that he has been approached by an AI company in the past, seeking to use his Geralt voice in their database. However, he firmly declined the offer due to concerns over voice theft. Cockle believes that voice actors, especially those portraying main characters, should have more control over how their voices are used, particularly in light of the increasing interest players and fans have in knowing the voices behind their favorite characters.
In response to these concerns, voice actor Cissy Jones, along with her company Morpheme.ai, has been working towards giving voice actors more control over their own voices through AI. Cockle expressed his support for this initiative and believes that actors should have a say in how their voices are used.
Cockle also emphasized the dangers of AI being used for illicit purposes, such as producing content that is racist or goes against ethical norms. He highlighted the potential for AI to create fake news, false opinions, and even manipulate political discourse.
While some game developers have used AI for voice acting, concerns about voice theft and unauthorized use remain prevalent. The debate surrounding AI’s role in the gaming industry continues, with a push for more ethical and controlled use of AI technology.
In conclusion, Cockle’s cautionary stance highlights the need for responsible and ethical use of AI in the video game industry. The voices of actors should be respected and protected, and measures should be in place to ensure their control over how their voices are utilized in AI-generated content.
Q: What are the concerns raised by Doug Cockle regarding AI in the video game industry?
A: Cockle is concerned about the potential unethical use of AI, specifically in replicating human voices, which can lead to voice theft and unauthorized use.
Q: Why does Cockle believe voice actors should have more control over how their voices are used?
A: Cockle believes that voice actors, especially those portraying main characters, should have more control over their voices because players and fans have a growing interest in knowing the voices behind their favorite characters.
Q: Is there any initiative to give voice actors more control over their voices through AI?
A: Yes, Cissy Jones and her company Morpheme.ai have been working towards giving voice actors more control over their own voices through AI.
Q: What are the potential dangers of AI being used for illicit purposes?
A: Cockle emphasized the dangers of AI being used to produce racist content, spread fake news, manipulate political discourse, and go against ethical norms.
Q: Are there concerns about voice theft and unauthorized use of AI technology in the gaming industry?
A: Yes, there are still concerns about voice theft and unauthorized use of AI technology in the gaming industry.
Definitions
Artificial Intelligence (AI): Refers to the simulation of human intelligence in machines that are programmed to think and learn like humans.
Voice Theft: The act of taking someone’s voice, digitizing it, and using it to say things the individual never said, often through the use of AI technology.
Fake News: Refers to false or misleading information presented as news, typically spread through traditional print and broadcast news media or online social media platforms.
Related Links
– Cissy Jones Official Website
– Morpheme.ai Official Website
