Game AI Pro 2

Chapter 36

Realizing NPCs

Animation and Behavior Control for Believable Characters

Jeet Shroff

36.1 Introduction

A core goal for game developers is to build nonplayer characters (NPCs) that are believable to the player. Believability does not necessarily imply realism, but in order to be believable, these characters must move convincingly, bound by their physicality and environment. They must look, act, and react meaningfully, both individually and in groups. Their actions and intentions must be clearly understood by the player. NPCs that maintain the illusion of believability compel the player to interact with them, further sell the fantasy, and ground the player within the game world. The process of clearly visualizing and communicating not ...