Reviving a Voice from the Past: AI Resurrects a Polish Actor's Performance in Cyberpunk 2077 DLC, Phantom Liberty

Imagine playing your favorite video game and suddenly being transported back in time by the voice of a beloved character, a voice that belongs to a performer who is no longer with us. This is the unexpected and heartwarming experience that players of the latest DLC for Cyberpunk 2077, Phantom Liberty, have had. CD Projekt Red, the developer behind the game, has made the incredible decision to bring back the voice of Miłogost "Miłek" Reczek, the celebrated actor who originally voiced the role of doctor Viktor Vektor in the Polish version of Cyberpunk 2077, but sadly passed away in 2021.

CD Projekt Red's decision came to light a month before the DLC's release, as they revealed their plan to use artificial intelligence to recreate Reczek's voice performance. The announcement sparked widespread interest in this unique use of AI technology in gaming. Mikołaj Szwed, Localization Director at CD Projekt Red, explained the studio's decision, stating that they had contemplated re-recording the character's lines with another actor but decided to respect Reczek's legacy by preserving his unique voice performance.

The studio achieved their goal with the help of Respeecher, a Kyiv-based startup specializing in voice cloning technology. CD Projekt Red approached Reczek's family for permission to create an AI algorithm using the late actor's voice. The algorithm would then be used to voice Viktor Vektor's new lines, performed by another actor, Janusz Zadura, who would attempt to replicate Reczek's distinctive speech pattern. Respecting the Reczek family's wishes and receiving their full support, the studio proceeded with their innovative project.

However, this pioneering use of AI in gaming has not been without its controversies. The utilization of AI to clone voices and performances has raised concerns in the acting community, leading to scrutiny over the possible exploitation of actors, living or deceased. The Screen Actors Guild‐American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) has been advocating for protections over the use of digital likenesses of actors, a topic that has gained momentum in recent times.

Despite these concerns, the successful implementation of AI voice cloning in Phantom Liberty serves as a poignant tribute to an accomplished performer. It provides a powerful example of how technology can be used to honor the legacy of artists and keep their memory alive. As we see AI's increasing role in creative works, it becomes paramount to strike a balance between technological innovation and ethical responsibility. With thoughtful usage, AI technology can bridge the gap between the past and the present, keeping the voices of the past alive in our hearts and ears.