Blizzard is increasingly experimenting with AI where they previously relied entirely on humans. This is evident not only in the implementation of AI in support, which has been heavily criticized by players since its launch, but also, according to fans, in the company's advertising materials.
The situation escalated after mass layoffs in August.
Now World of Warcraft is under fire. Despite the game's popularity, technological innovations have also affected voice actors. A statement appeared on Reddit from French actress Corinne Vellon, who voiced Queen Talanji of Zandalar for over seven years. She announced that she was leaving the project due to new conditions related to artificial intelligence. In her words: "Talanji, Queen of Zandalar in World of Warcraft, whom I have voiced for over seven years, will be voiced by a new actress. I refuse to continue working because of the clauses regarding AI."
Players believe that Blizzard does not intend to completely replace actors with AI, but rather use it to generate additional lines, which will reduce the cost of additional voice acting. This scenario fits into Microsoft's policy of actively introducing AI into various divisions. But it is not yet possible to confirm the theories.
In France, there is already an association of actors who oppose the use of AI in their profession, and fans assume that Vellon is part of it. As a reminder, similar strikes have previously taken place in the United States.
