The Witcher 3 Director Kate Saxon Argues That No Tech Can Match the Soul of Human Performance
- Kate Saxon, performance director for The Witcher 3, firmly believes AI cannot replicate the emotional depth and human spark that actors bring to video game storytelling.
- While AI is being used in some games like The Finals for voiceovers, many industry leaders and performers resist this trend, emphasizing the irreplaceable value of human emotion and instinct.
- As video games evolve with complex narratives and motion capture, the need for authentic, nuanced performances by actors becomes even more critical, a quality AI lacks.
The debate over artificial intelligence in the gaming industry has reached a fever pitch, with some developers embracing AI-generated voices as a cost-effective solution, while others staunchly defend the irreplaceable essence of human performance. At the heart of this discussion is Kate Saxon, the performance director behind The Witcher 3, who recently shared her unyielding stance with EDGE Magazine in Issue 409. Saxon argues that no matter how advanced AI becomes, or how fervently tech enthusiasts on platforms like Twitter champion its potential, it will never capture “that human spark” which transforms a good story into a great one. As games like The Finals opt for AI voices over human actors, a rebellion is brewing among some of the industry’s finest performers and directors who see this technology as a hollow substitute for genuine emotion.
Saxon’s perspective is clear and resolute. In her interview, as reported by GamesRadar, she stated, “I just don’t see it ever fully replacing actors, at least not in the kinds of games that truly care about strong storytelling, rich characters, and meaningful dialogue.” She acknowledges that AI might have a place for minor tasks, such as adding pick-up lines or filling small gaps in dialogue, but when it comes to the core of a performance, something vital is missing. “There’s something you can’t quite quantify – that lifts a performance from decent to genuinely moving,” she explained. This intangible quality, she believes, is rooted in the human experience, something no algorithm can replicate, no matter how sophisticated.
With a career that spans theater, television, and video games, Saxon’s expertise is undeniable. Her work has shaped some of the most memorable performances in gaming history, from the chilling tension of Alien: Isolation to the epic narratives of Castlevania: Lords of Shadow and Far Cry 3. Her insight into what makes a performance resonate comes from years of guiding actors to bring characters to life. “Actors bring more than just their voices to games,” she told EDGE Magazine. “They bring life experience, their instincts, their emotional intelligence.” These elements are what breathe soul into a character, turning lines of dialogue into moments that linger with players long after the game ends.
The evolution of video games themselves underscores Saxon’s point. As titles have grown infinitely more complex, so too have the demands on performers. Voice acting, while still crucial, is now often paired with professional motion capture, allowing actors to fully embody their roles. Games like The Last of Us and Baldur’s Gate 3 showcase this beautifully, with performers physically acting out scenes to create a seamless blend of voice and movement. Consider moments like Neil Newbon’s ad-libbed brilliance as Astarion in Baldur’s Gate 3, or the subtle shifts in Lae’zel’s actress’s performance as her character develops over time. These are not just lines read from a script; they are lived experiences, felt and expressed in ways that AI, devoid of emotion or personal history, simply cannot match. Saxon’s assertion rings true: performing is about feeling the lines, not just saying them, and AI feels nothing.
Looking specifically at The Witcher 3, a game often hailed as a pinnacle of storytelling in gaming, the power of human performance is undeniable. Doug Cockle’s portrayal of Geralt of Rivia is nothing short of iconic, his gravelly voice and nuanced delivery capturing the witcher’s stoic yet deeply human nature. Similarly, the late William Roberts brought an irreplaceable warmth and gravitas to Vesemir, a performance that remains etched in players’ memories. These are not just voices; they are characters brought to life through the unique talents of their actors. As anticipation builds for The Witcher 4, there’s little doubt that CD Projekt RED will continue to prioritize such majestic performances, ensuring that the series retains the emotional depth that has made it a cultural touchstone.
The broader implications of this debate extend beyond any single game or franchise. As the gaming industry stands at a crossroads, the choice between embracing AI for efficiency or preserving human artistry for authenticity will shape the future of storytelling in interactive media. While AI may offer convenience, it risks stripping away the very elements that make games a powerful medium for connection and emotion. Saxon’s words serve as a reminder that technology, no matter how advanced, cannot replicate the soul of a performance. The hordes of tech advocates online may tout AI as the future, but for those who value the heart of gaming, the human spark remains an irreplaceable force. As this conversation unfolds, one thing is certain: the battle for the soul of video game storytelling is far from over, and voices like Saxon’s will continue to champion the magic that only humans can bring.