Fortnite is about to unleash AI-powered NPCs

Published: Tuesday, June 3, 2025 at 5:27 pm

Fortnite to Introduce AI-Powered NPCs, Promising Dynamic Gameplay

Fortnite is poised to revolutionize its gameplay experience with the upcoming integration of AI-powered Non-Player Characters (NPCs). Using a new tool within the Unreal Editor for Fortnite (UEFN), creators will soon be able to design NPCs that move beyond pre-scripted dialogue and engage in dynamic, generative conversations.

This innovative technology allows for extensive customization. Developers can tailor the voice, delivery style, and personality traits of their AI characters. A recent demonstration showcased the potential of this system, with an NPC named Mr. Buttons successfully persuading a player to interact with an in-game object. The character's responses were generated in real-time, based on a limited set of prompt text.

However, the technology is still in its early stages. The current system operates on a turn-taking basis, with pauses between the player's questions and the NPC's responses. These pauses are currently filled with vocal fillers to create a more natural flow.

This development builds upon previous experiments with AI in Fortnite, including the use of AI to generate dialogue for Darth Vader. While the Vader integration was a technical feat, it also highlighted the potential pitfalls of AI-driven content. An incident involving inappropriate language prompted a swift response from Epic Games.

The UEFN tool, which will allow creators to build these AI-powered NPCs, is slated for release later this year. This promises to significantly expand the creative possibilities within Fortnite, allowing for more immersive and interactive gameplay experiences.

BNN's Perspective: The integration of AI into Fortnite presents both exciting opportunities and potential challenges. While the ability to create dynamic and engaging NPCs could significantly enhance the player experience, it's crucial for developers to implement robust safeguards to prevent the generation of inappropriate or offensive content. Striking a balance between creative freedom and responsible AI implementation will be key to the success of this new feature.

Keywords: Fortnite, AI, NPCs, Unreal Editor, UEFN, Generative AI, Gameplay, Mr. Buttons, Darth Vader, Epic Games, Gaming, Video Games, Artificial Intelligence, Game Development, Interactive, Dynamic, Customization

Full Story