Deconstructor of Fun 286. Bots in Gaming: The Good, The Bad, and The Future with GGWP's George Ng
May 22, 2025
In this insightful discussion, George Ng, Co-founder and CTO of GGWP, shares his expertise in AI-based content moderation for games. He delves into the dual nature of bots, exploring how they can enhance gameplay for new players while creating challenges for others through cheating. The conversation uncovers the impact of aimbots and wall hacks on player experiences and highlights regional trends in bot usage. Ng also predicts the evolving landscape of bots and offers strategies for game studios to adapt and thrive in this dynamic environment.
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Dual Nature of Bots in Gaming
- Bots in gaming create adverse experiences mainly through cheating, which can frustrate players and damage game integrity.
- Yet, some bots, like those created by players for inventory management or training, serve as useful community tools.
Strategies to Combat Bots
- Detecting and preventing bots is a resource-intensive cat-and-mouse game that requires prioritization based on game scale and community size.
- Publicly banning cheaters and communicating it to the community helps reduce frustration and reinforces deterrence.
Gray Areas in Bot Usage
- Automation or AI-assisted play may be acceptable when it does not affect other players or create unfair advantages.
- Single-player bots enhancing gameplay or convenience usually fall into a gray area less harmful to the community.