What's Happening?
CCP Games, the developer of EVE Online, has launched a new AI-powered assistance feature called Aura Guidance to help new players navigate the complex game. This feature is designed to simplify the game's help system by transforming millions of messages from the game's help channel into a more accessible Q&A format. Executive producer Snorri Árnason emphasized that Aura Guidance is not a generative AI and does not create game content or replace creative work. Instead, it supplements existing player support by providing context-based assistance. The AI is trained on over 5.8 million messages from the Rookie Help channel, aiming to make the game more approachable for new players. The feature is currently in an early version and will be tested
with a select group of new players to evaluate its effectiveness in improving player retention.
Why It's Important?
The introduction of Aura Guidance represents a significant step in making EVE Online more accessible to new players, addressing the game's steep learning curve. By providing tailored assistance, the feature aims to enhance the onboarding experience and potentially increase player retention. This development highlights the growing role of AI in improving user experience in complex environments. For CCP Games, this initiative could lead to a broader player base and increased engagement, which are crucial for the game's long-term success. The careful implementation of AI in this context also reflects the industry's cautious approach to integrating AI technologies without compromising creative integrity.
What's Next?
CCP Games plans to monitor the impact of Aura Guidance on new player retention by comparing groups with and without access to the feature. Depending on the results, the company may expand the feature to all new players or explore alternative solutions if the AI does not meet expectations. The ongoing development and refinement of Aura Guidance will likely involve feedback from players and further integration of player support data. This initiative could set a precedent for other gaming companies to explore AI-driven solutions to enhance player experience and retention.
