In this discussion, Hilary Mason, Founder of Hidden Door and a seasoned expert in machine learning, dives into the exciting intersection of AI and gaming. She explains how generative AI is reshaping narrative development in games, allowing players to influence stories actively. Hilary shares insights on rallying creative talent and the unique challenges of attracting investors to innovative gaming concepts. She also reflects on her journey from data science to game development, emphasizing the importance of ethics in AI and future innovations for immersive gameplay.
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Bandersnatch Example
Hilary Mason mentions Netflix's Bandersnatch as an example of interactive storytelling.
Unlike Hidden Door, Bandersnatch's content was pre-written, limiting player choices.
insights INSIGHT
Content Acquisition
Hidden Door partners directly with writers, licensing their work and ensuring they approve of the game's content.
This approach prioritizes ethical considerations and authorial control over creative works.
insights INSIGHT
AI Advantages
Hidden Door leverages AI to provide an accessible tabletop RPG experience without extensive preparation.
It also significantly reduces game development time from months to days.
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Published in 1813, 'Pride and Prejudice' is a novel that revolves around the lives of the Bennet family, particularly the second eldest daughter, Elizabeth. The story is set in the early 19th century and explores themes of love, societal expectations, and personal growth. The novel centers on Elizabeth's tumultuous relationship with the wealthy and proud Mr. Darcy, whose initial arrogance and reserve gradually give way to a deeper understanding and mutual respect. Through their interactions, both characters learn to overcome their prejudices and flaws, leading to a transformative journey of self-discovery and redemption. The novel also delves into the societal pressures on women to secure marriages, the importance of family, and the nuances of social hierarchy during the British Regency period[3][4][5].
Bridgerton
Julia Quinn
The Bridgerton series by Julia Quinn is a collection of eight novels set in Regency-era England, each focusing on one of the eight Bridgerton siblings as they find love and navigate societal expectations. The series includes titles such as 'The Duke and I', 'The Viscount Who Loved Me', and 'On the Way to the Wedding'. The novels have been well-received for their engaging characters and historical settings.
Altered Carbon
Richard K. Morgan
In this 2002 cyberpunk novel, Richard K. Morgan explores a future where interstellar travel and relative immortality are possible through the transfer of consciousness into new bodies, known as 'sleeves'. The story follows Takeshi Kovacs, a former U.N. elite soldier turned private investigator, who is hired by the wealthy and influential Laurens Bancroft to investigate his own murder. Bancroft, a member of the elite class known as the 'Meths', has no memories of his death and believes he was murdered. Kovacs must navigate a complex web of corruption, class disparity, and technological advancements to uncover the truth. The novel delves into themes of identity, morality, and the commodification of human life, set against a backdrop of a gritty, dystopian future[2][3][5].
Today, we’re bringing you a special mini episode led by TechCrunch senior reporter and co-host of our sister podcast, Found, Dominic Madori-Davis. During this year’s Disrupt, Dom caught up with Hilary Mason from Hidden Door, an AI-driven narrative game engine. Dom and Hilary got into how generative AI is changing online gaming, building a team of creatives, fundraising in the gaming space, and more.
Connect with Equity on X and Threads @EquityPods, and keep up with all of TechCrunch's podcasts @TechCrunchPods on TikTok.
Credits: Equity is produced by Theresa Loconsolo with editing by Kell. Bryce Durbin is our Illustrator. We'd also like to thank the audience development team and Henry Pickavet, who manages TechCrunch audio products.
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