This research shows improved player immersion with AI-driven NPCs in games, highlighting trends in AI usage.
Abstract This study explores the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into game development with a focus on enhancing player experience through personalized gameplay and dynamic scenario structures. A dual-method approach was employed, combining a bibliometric analysis of AI-related game research from 1961 to 2025 with an experimental evaluation using a custom-built game developed in Unreal Engine 5. The bibliometric analysis, based on publications retrieved from IEEE Xplore, revealed key research trends, influential institutions, and frequently used keywords, indicating a substantial rise in scholarly attention to AI in gaming since 2015. In parallel, an experimental prototype was created featuring AI-driven non-player characters (NPCs) capable of adapting to player behavior via machine learning algorithms. The results demonstrate that players exhibited higher engagement and immersion when interacting with adaptive AI NPCs compared to traditional rule-based models. These NPCs displayed more lifelike and responsive behavior, contributing to a more interactive and enjoyable gaming experience. The study contributes to the literature by offering a data-driven and practice-based framework for understanding the impact of AI on contemporary game mechanics, NPC behavior, and personalized interaction. The findings provide valuable insights for future intelligent game design, supporting the development of more human-centered, immersive, and adaptive digital entertainment environments.
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Nalbant et al. (2025) studied this question.
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