In a recent discussion about the potential implications of AI for the gaming industry, Ashly Burch, known for her role as Aloy in the critically acclaimed game Horizon Zero Dawn, expressed her concerns about the future of performance in video games.

Earlier this week, Burch attended a tech demo showcasing artificial intelligence (AI) interpretations of her iconic character, Aloy. Despite the impressive technology on display, she clarified that this demo did not involve any of her own performance data, including her facial expressions or voice. “Guerilla Games, who developed Horizon Zero Dawn, informed me that this demo does not reflect any active development and that they retain ownership of Aloy as a character,” Burch stated.

Her primary concern lies not with Guerilla Games, but with the broader implications of AI technology within the art of video game performance. As a member of the SAG-AFTRA union, which is currently on strike due to AI-related issues, Burch emphasized the need for protections for performers. “We’re fighting for rights that ensure no AI version of us can be created without our explicit consent, fair compensation, and transparency on how our likeness will be used,” she explained.

Burch reflected on the unsettling reality of AI technology. “It’s not just that the technology exists; it’s the powerful desire from gaming companies to utilize it for profit that worries me. Imagine a game coming out using someone’s performance without their consent. If this fight is lost, that actor could have no recourse, no protections,” she lamented, clearly passionate about the future of her industry.

Burch's fears resonate with many in the acting community, particularly as advancements in AI technology threaten traditional roles and creative performances. She voiced her desire for growth within the industry, stating, “I genuinely love this industry and want to see a new generation of actors flourish, not be replaced. The prospect of losing unique human performances to machines is deeply heartbreaking.”

As the conversation surrounding AI in gaming continues to evolve, it’s clear that performers like Burch are determined to ensure that their craft remains a valued part of this creative medium—one where human emotion and artistry cannot be replicated by algorithms.