According to GameSpot, Ubisoft showcased a generative AI game demo called Teammates during an investor presentation, with CEO Yves Guillemot declaring generative AI represents “a revolution” as significant as gaming’s shift to 3D. The first-person shooter prototype features NPCs that dynamically respond to player voice commands in real-time, developed by the same team behind Neo NPC. Currently being tested by a small number of players, the demo includes a companion character named Jaspar who helps overcome obstacles and provides strategies. Ubisoft’s narrative director Virginie Mosser emphasized designing Teammates to “leave space for player creativity” while balancing “emotion and unpredictability.” The company plans to unveil its new “Creative Houses” operating model in January 2026.
Is this really the next 3D revolution?
Guillemot’s comparison to the 3D shift is… ambitious. Remember when every game suddenly went polygonal in the mid-90s? That was a visible, tangible change anyone could see. Generative AI NPCs? That’s a much subtler evolution. The concept of companion characters helping players isn’t new – we’ve had everything from Elizabeth in BioShock Infinite to the various AI partners in co-op games. The difference here is supposedly real-time voice interaction.
But do players actually want voice commands?
Here’s the thing: voice commands in gaming have had a rocky history. Remember yelling at your Kinect? Or struggling with voice controls in various VR titles? The technology has improved, sure, but the fundamental question remains – do players want to talk to their games, or do they prefer the efficiency of button presses? Ubisoft seems to be betting big that natural language interaction will create deeper immersion. But I’m skeptical about mass adoption outside of specific use cases.
The elephant in the room: AI hallucinations
Ubisoft acknowledges this challenge directly, mentioning they’ve built guardrails to prevent “AI-powered hallucinations.” That’s crucial because nothing breaks immersion faster than an NPC suddenly spouting nonsense about purple elephants during a serious firefight. Their specially made API sounds like a smart approach, but testing with “a small number of players” suggests they’re still working out the kinks. Basically, they’re trying to balance unpredictability (which can be fun) with coherence (which is essential).
What this means for gaming
If Ubisoft can actually deliver on this promise, it could fundamentally change game design. We’re talking about NPCs that remember your previous interactions, adapt to your playstyle, and create genuinely unique experiences for each player. But the big question is whether the technology is ready for prime time. Ubisoft’s recent apology for AI artwork in Anno 117: Pax Romana shows they’re still learning how to implement AI responsibly. The gaming industry is watching closely though – if this works, every major studio will need similar capabilities. The race for AI-powered gaming is officially on, and Ubisoft wants to lead it.
