Baldur’s Gate 3 Actor Critiques Generative AI for Dialogue, Urges Studios to Compensate Actors for Re-recording
Neil Newbon, the voice behind the charming vampire Astarion in Baldur’s Gate 3, has some strong words for studios cashing in on generative AI for voice lines: it’s time to rethink that approach.
In a conversation, Newbon expressed his frustration with the rise of AI replacing human voice actors, stating, “Forget AI in performance,” and received enthusiastic support from fans. He firmly believes that there’s no valid reason to take jobs away from real performers. “I don’t think it’s legitimate,” he added.
While some major game developers are incorporating AI into their production processes, the outright replacement of human actors with AI remains relatively rare. However, titles like Arc Raiders have faced backlash for using AI-generated text-to-speech voices. Newbon chose not to comment on specific cases but took a strong stance against using generative AI for performances.
“If you’re opting not to record the lines and just using AI to manipulate someone’s voice, that’s a problem,” he explained. “You’re denying that performer their pay for the day and their ability to support themselves or their family—most actors aren’t wealthy and often struggle throughout their careers.”
He challenged the justification for using AI, saying, “If the excuse is, ‘We couldn’t afford it,’ then maybe you should find a way to go back and do it right now that you’ve made your profits.”
Newbon also critiqued the quality of AI-generated voices, describing them as “crap,” “boring,” and “dull as hell.” He suggested that developers could enhance their games by bringing back actors to re-record lines, which would not only improve the emotional depth of the performances but also foster goodwill within the community.
“No matter how advanced it gets, it still sounds off,” he remarked. “To anyone who profited from a release using generative AI for voices: consider reaching out to those actors you paid to clone their voices and get them back in the booth. You’ve got the funds now—share the wealth. It would benefit the actors and create positive vibes in the community, as many people feel strongly about this issue. In the long run, it’s a decent move.”
While this sentiment is commendable, it’s hard not to be skeptical about whether companies prioritizing profit will genuinely care about the livelihoods of actors. Still, it’s a hopeful notion to consider.
The team behind Mass Effect has stated they “don’t have plans to use generative AI for any element” of their upcoming sci-fi RPG, Exodus, despite interest in the technology.
