Embark Studios Discusses Generative AI Voice Acting in Arc Raiders
- Embark Studios utilized generative AI for voice acting in Arc Raiders, citing benefits for voice actors.
- Audio director Bence Pajor noted the impracticality of recording every possible line due to frequent game updates.
- Embark’s CCO Stefan Strandberg emphasized that the studio does not aim to replace voice actors despite the use of AI.
Developers at Embark Studios, the creators of Arc Raiders, have addressed the implementation of generative AI voice acting in their extraction shooter. They claim that the initial application of generative AI for voice lines was advantageous for voice actors, as it alleviated the burden of extensive script readings. “They would just go crazy if they had to read all of that,” stated Bence Pajor, the audio director.
This information was shared in a recently released video by Embark, which centers on the game’s sound and music. Team members discussed the role of generative AI in voice lines and how they are transitioning towards human performances.
Pajor discussed his past experiences where gameplay decisions were hindered due to locked voice lines, describing it as a “true pain” which added pressure on the writing and dialogue teams, as well as on voice actors dealing with scheduling conflicts. He emphasized the benefits of utilizing available voice actors in Stockholm alongside the current tools.
In the video, Pajor also explained that training data incorporated voice actor performances, highlighting the impracticality of recording every potential line variation for new game features, items, or weapons. “The actors would just go crazy if they had to read all of that,” he reiterated.
Acknowledging the frequent updates and changes to Arc Raiders since its release in October 2025, Pajor noted that it would be challenging to call voice actors for re-recording each time a line required modification. Two voice actors featured in the video—Jo Rideout (Shani) and Diana Gardner (Celeste)—expressed their sentiments on this approach. Gardner mentioned it was “freeing” to accept other acting jobs without worrying about canceling previous commitments.
However, Gardner raised concerns regarding her ownership of Celeste’s lines, saying, “The contract seemed so fair […] so it was a no-brainer in that sense. But I didn’t know what to expect once I heard the voice come out. I was like, ‘Can I take ownership for the performance?’ […] This is hours of work that I’ve put in, but can I take ownership for the final product? No.”
Despite the advantages presented by AI-powered performances, many of these voice lines are being replaced. CCO Stefan Strandberg stated, “we are not in the industry of replacing voice actors,” acknowledging the immersion-breaking experiences reported by players when they encountered these performances. Both Strandberg and Pajor recognized the critiques surrounding AI and highlighted ongoing efforts to replace AI-generated voices with human recordings where possible.
Strandberg added, “Actually I think quite the opposite. We should celebrate the performance and give them more space. That’s something I’m hoping to give to players over the coming years.”
Criticism of generative AI in Arc Raiders has surfaced in various reviews, including from sources within the industry. Embark has faced similar backlash regarding AI voice acting in The Finals, but the popularity of Arc Raiders using this technology led Nexon to label it as a “trojan horse” for the use of generative AI in small team game development.
News Courtesy of Eurogamer
