Embark Studios Replaces AI-Generated Voices with Human Actors in Arc Raiders
Embark Studios has officially confirmed that it has re-recorded several AI-generated voice lines in its game Arc Raiders with human actors. This decision came after the studio acknowledged noticeable differences in quality between synthetic and professionally recorded dialogue. The changes were implemented post-launch, highlighting the company's commitment to enhancing the gaming experience through authentic voice performances.
CEO Patrick Soderlund on AI as a Production Tool
In an interview with GamesIndustry.biz, Embark CEO Patrick Soderlund detailed the studio's approach. He explained that while the company continues to collaborate with actors for essential recordings, it also licenses their voices for limited AI-generated dialogue in specific scenarios, such as ping system audio. Soderlund stated, "We pay our actors for all time spent with us in the booth and continue to bring many of them back as we carry on updating the game. For select usage, we also pay them for the approval to license their voices through text-to-speech for lines that aren't as essential to the immersion of the experience."
He further emphasized that AI is viewed primarily as a production tool, not a replacement for human talent. "We re-recorded some of the lines post-launch and made them with real voices. There is a quality difference. A real professional actor is better than AI; that's just how it is. We look at [AI] first and foremost as a production tool. We can test things internally. We can test 15 different lines without recording them, and then we know what to record. It's also a way for us to work, not replace actors. We don't necessarily believe in replacing humans with AI all the time," Soderlund added.
Earlier Statements on AI Usage in Game Development
Previously, in October 2025, Stefan Strandberg, Chief Creative Officer of Embark Studios, told Eurogamer that AI tools are used to assist in content creation, but always within a creative context. "We use AI as tools to assist in some content creation, but it's always in the context of creativity, as an expression of the team," Strandberg said. He noted that text-to-speech technology allows for increased game scope in areas where voice actors might find the work tedious or less valuable, clarifying that the core game experience does not rely on generative AI.
Addressing Discord Data Security Concerns
In related news, Embark Studios has resolved a data security issue involving the Arc Raiders integration with Discord. The problem involved the storage of users' private Discord messages locally on their computers. Developers at Embark have since fixed this vulnerability. A Discord spokesperson informed Eurogamer that the company is "providing guidance to developers and updating the Discord Social SDK with additional protections" to prevent similar issues in the future.
This incident underscores the importance of cybersecurity in gaming integrations, as studios work to safeguard user data while enhancing gameplay features.
Implications for the Gaming Industry
The move by Embark Studios reflects a broader trend in the gaming industry, where AI is increasingly used as a supplementary tool rather than a complete substitute for human creativity. Key points include:
- Quality Enhancement: Human actors provide superior voice quality, improving player immersion.
- Ethical AI Use: Studios are prioritizing fair compensation and collaboration with actors.
- Production Efficiency: AI aids in testing and prototyping, streamlining development processes.
- Security Measures: Addressing data issues promptly maintains user trust and compliance.
As technology evolves, Embark Studios' approach may set a precedent for balancing innovation with artistic integrity in game development.
