Dragon Quest creator Yuji Horii hopes AI powered game characters can become more than simple help systems. He wants them to feel like personal companions for each player.
Square Enix and Google announced in March that Dragon Quest X would receive a Gemini powered NPC called Chatty Slimey. The character is described as a conversational AI companion that can answer questions and help players understand the game. Horii, however, sees a larger possibility.
He said that when he first made Dragon Quest, he wanted townspeople to speak as naturally as possible. At the time, NPC dialogue was limited to written lines. Now, AI can respond more directly, which could make in game characters feel more alive.
Horii does not think simply replacing townspeople with AI would be enough. His interest is more focused on companionship. He believes players may feel more comfortable talking to an AI if it appears as a game character rather than a plain chatbot.
That is where Chatty Slimey comes in. Horii hopes the character can answer game related questions, listen to player concerns, and even talk about topics outside the game. He also suggested that AI companions could help beginners learn how to play and may remain meaningful to players after they leave the game.
| AI companion idea | What it could mean in games |
|---|---|
| Game help | Explains quests, systems, and mechanics |
| Beginner support | Guides new players without feeling like a tutorial menu |
| Emotional support | Lets players talk through concerns or casual topics |
| Personal connection | Builds a unique relationship with each player |
| Long term role | Could become part of a wider game series experience |
AI NPCs are already appearing in other games, but many current examples are used more for jokes, short interactions, or novelty. Horii’s idea is different. He wants AI characters to support the player in a more personal way.
The idea will likely be debated. Some players may enjoy having an NPC that remembers them, answers naturally, and feels more responsive than scripted dialogue. Others may worry that AI could make game writing feel less intentional or less human.
Dragon Quest X will be an important test. If Chatty Slimey feels useful without becoming intrusive, it could show how AI companions might work in role playing games. If it feels shallow or artificial, it may remain another experiment.
For now, Horii’s goal is clear. He does not want AI characters to be only tools. He wants them to become companions that make games feel warmer, more personal, and easier to enter.
Discussion (0)
Be the first to comment.