AI and eSports are both on the rise.
AI stands for artificial intelligence and can come in many different forms. Most modern electronic tools use some form of artificial intelligence.
For example, GPS and other electronic maps use artificial intelligence to give users the best route and time estimations. Most platforms such as YouTube and Instagram, also use an algorithm with an AI-powered recommendation system.
The term ‘eSports’ stands for electronic sports. Esports are played by gamers. In order to win an electronic sport, a gamer needs to outperform other gamers. Esports is a type of competitive gaming niche like casino games and online slots games where players can play against opponents or the computer.
Esports are based are sports games and like with any other sport, esports have their own tournaments and competitions. There are also global eSports rankings listing the best gamers of the year.
But how are AI and eSports connected? Why is AI becoming more common in the eSports world?
The incorporation of AI within eSports
Nowadays, many companies are starting to incorporate AI within eSports. They do so in a variety of ways.
- AI for eSports training simulations
AI is being used to create convincing training simulations that help train eSports athletes.
These training simulations create different scenarios and gameplays to help eSports athletes prepare for different situations.
Not only are these training simulations great for practice, many of them also provide a detailed analysis of the athlete’s performance.
This post-game analysis can include an in-depth analysis of the gameplay, the gamer’s gaming profile and training schedule based on the player’s level, as well as tips on how strategy optimisation.
- AI for in-game assistance
Some AI tools even provide feedback in real-time to help players make the necessary adjustments and improve their game.
These AI modes are sometimes referred to as in-game assistance tools.
AI in-game assistance tools can also include virtual assistants. These in-built virtual assistants are there to guide players when they are struggling.
For example, if a player is stuck or has a question about a specific aspect of the game, they can ask the virtual assistant to help them.
Using an in-game assistant can save players a lot of time. They can now get an immediate response from the game’s virtual assistant instead of having to look up their questions or issues online.
- AI for real-time language translation
Esports tournaments attract people from all over the world. Some gamers do not speak the host country’s language and struggle to communicate with foreign players.
To deal with this issue, eSports tournaments are increasingly turning to AI for real-time translation.
They use artificial intelligence to make sure that all players can understand the announcements and speeches made during the tournament.
Some venues also use AI for real-time language translation when it comes to eSports interviews and social events.
Is AI within eSports useful?
There are some positive sides to incorporating AI within eSports.
- A better viewing and gaming experience
AI offers a better viewing and gaming experience to both spectators and players.
For example, it is improving the viewing experience of eSports tournaments around the world in a number of ways.
First of all, AI-powered algorithms help esports fans find livestreams of tournaments. Thanks to such algorithms, esports tournaments can easily reach their target audience.
After all, platforms like YouTube rely on an AI-powered recommendation system.
Secondly, many companies behind Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) headsets are now combining these technologies with AI.
They use AI to create games that are constantly evolving and adapting to a player’s actions.
The combination of advanced gaming gear with AI tools lead to an enhanced gaming experience.
Thirdly, many game developers use AI to create impressive visuals and gaming worlds. The visuals create an incredibly immersive environment that enhance gamers’ experience.
- It helps improve a player’s gaming skills
AI can help improve all players and athletes’ skills.
It is a great learning tool thanks to its personalised training simulations, as well as detailed feedback and analysis of players’ performances.
Many sports athletes use AI to train. For example, most runners use one or more AI tool to keep track of their overall performance and different training sessions.
In other words, AI can be used to train for many different sports and games.
Final thoughts
As explained in this article, AI is increasingly used within the eSports world to provide a better gaming and viewing experience.
Many eSports players are now using AI to train for tournaments and competitions. They are also using common AI features such as in-game assistants and game optimisation tools.
Esports venues are also using AI. For example, they turn to AI for real-time translation and livestreams.
Viewers also use AI-powered platforms when they watch livestreams of esports events.
