Bandai Namco Refutes Allegations of AI Usage in Latest Naruto Game

Bandai Namco has dismissed speculation that it utilized AI-driven voice technology in its latest anime brawler, Naruto x Boruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm Connections. Following reports by IGN, the publisher announced plans to rectify issues with in-game dialogue that had caught the attention of users and voice actors alike. In a statement to IGN, a Bandai Namco representative clarified, "The voice over lines in question were not generated by AI, but rather resulted from inconsistencies during the editing and mastering process." This statement was released in response to social media users sharing examples of perceived subpar voice acting. Maile Flanagan, the voice of Naruto, expressed her surprise at a particular line in a now-deleted tweet, stating that she did not deliver the line in that manner. Voice actor Michael Schwalbe, who portrays Kawaki, also chimed in, claiming he had no recollection of voicing a specific line shared from the game. Bandai Namco is not the only company to deny AI involvement in their game this week, as Genvid, the developer of Silent Hill: Ascension, also refuted claims of using artificial intelligence to craft game dialogue.