Are online games becoming more intelligent? This would certainly seem to be the case at first glance. After all, we have indeed come a long way since the era of relatively simple interfaces such as two-dimensional platforms with a decidedly predictive nature. While this made winning relatively easy, we need to keep in mind that players would soon lose interest.
Unfortunately, these scenarios were necessary evils; often dictated by the amount of processing power that was available at the time. Now that computers are advancing at a breakneck pace, we are beginning to witness the emergence of artificial intelligence within the online gaming community. So, are the games themselves becoming “smarter” and how might this ultimately affect the end-user experience?
How AI Impacts Gameplay
Let us take a moment to examine a common card game such as blackjack in order o fully appreciate the role of AI. Of course, all of the rules to be found here on this site are the same; regardless of what type of platform is being employed. While this is great news for those who are already familiar with the inherent mechanics of blackjack, how might the gameplay become more complicated?
First and foremost, we need to remember that artificial intelligence employs a series of algorithms to determine the moves that a player may make (based on his or her previous tendencies). It, therefore, stands to reason that the game will become more challenging as a direct result of end-user interaction.
This is even more relevant when we take a look at games that are not associated with a strict set of rules (such as RPG platforms). Players can therefore expect a much more fluid and ultimately, rewarding experience. This very same sense of unpredictability is likewise what has allowed some games to become extremely challenging.
The Role of the Player
Now that we can appreciate the role of artificial intelligence in relation to smart gaming, what about the perspective of the player? It should be mentioned that games able to exhibit a more “organic” feel will often be touted as some of the most difficult. This arises from the fact that players begin to place human qualities into the game itself. Thus, they take losses more personally and could even be prone to use words such as “unfair” or “biased.
A final point to highlight involves a bit of human psychology. Players who are competing against a computer-based opponent (such as during a game of chess) can easily become intimidated by how quickly moves may be decided. This could cause their confidence to drop and as a result, they might lose a match much faster than in the past.
The main takeaway point is that online games are indeed becoming much smarter and this is a very good thing. Not only will they be able to provide untold hours of entertainment, but they will encourage players to think outside of the proverbial box. This is also why it is altogether uncertain what the future may have in store.
