Electronic Arts has confirmed the use of "AI voice technology" in the upcoming NHL 27, a move the company says will enhance game variety and enable faster responses to league changes and player feedback. The developer stated that the AI voices were created with the "full consent and active collaboration" of in-game commentators John Buccigross and Darren Pang.
The use of generative AI in the hockey simulation was first brought to light by ESPN sportscaster John Buccigross, who provides play-by-play commentary for the EA Sports NHL series. He mentioned on the Chirping Zebras Podcast that the development team had used AI to generate voice lines that sounded like him. "They played me some stuff back in my voice. It's like, wow, that's pretty good," Buccigross commented, adding, "If it means less work and the same check, I'll take it."
EA detailed its approach in a blog post accompanying the game's first update, clarifying the use of AI voice technology to expand upon the over 50 recording sessions already completed with Buccigross and Darren Pang. The company highlighted that this process allows for increased variety within the game, quicker incorporation of league developments, and more rapid integration of player feedback. The initial update aims to improve authenticity by addressing player name pronunciations and reducing repetitive commentary lines, with plans for continued expansion of player and city name coverage in future updates.
Buccigross also shared anecdotes where the AI-generated commentary required minor corrections, noting instances where the AI misconstrued common sports phrases. He recounted a situation where the AI stated, "Score! And the crowd gets out of their chairs!" to which he responded, "no, they're not chairs, we call them seats." He emphasized the importance of linguistic accuracy, stating, "Little things like that, you gotta go back and listen because those words matter in sports."
While NHL 27 is not currently slated for a PC release, the implications of EA's adoption of AI technology extend broadly. Earlier this year, Laura Miele, EA's president of enterprise development, suggested that AI has fostered "a real rise of creativity" within the company. This development signals a potential for generative AI to play an increasingly significant role in EA's future game development.