'There was some really fair criticism': Arc Raiders' devs understand why players were so upset about its AI use but admit that it was 'too impractical to record

Embark Studios developers have publicly acknowledged the criticism surrounding their use of AI-generated voice lines in *Arc Raiders*, describing the feedback as "really fair." The studio admitted that while AI was initially used to expedite updates, the resulting dialogue lacked the quality players expected. Embark’s audio director Bence Pajor explained that AI was employed to prototype and prototype dialogue quickly, but the final product required human performance.

The controversy stemmed from players’ frustration over AI-generated voices, which were perceived as lifeless and unnatural compared to the high-quality performances in other games like *Marathon*. Despite actors signing contracts allowing AI use, the backlash highlighted concerns about the technology’s impact on voice acting. Embark emphasized that the AI was a temporary solution to meet development deadlines, not a preference for the technology itself.

Embark has since re-recorded dialogue with real voice actors to address the criticism and improve the game’s audio quality. Chief creative officer Stefan Strandberg reiterated the studio’s commitment to supporting voice performers, stating their goal is to celebrate performances rather than replace actors. The studio aims to highlight character depth and motivations in future updates.

The initial use of AI in *Arc Raiders* set a controversial precedent in the industry, where cost-cutting measures often overshadow creative integrity. While Embark has corrected the issue, the incident underscores ongoing tensions between technological efficiency and the preservation of human artistry in game development. The studio’s shift to real voice actors reflects a broader industry challenge in balancing innovation with respect for creative professionals.