Unreal Editor for Fortnite Expands AI Character Creation Beyond Darth Vader
▼ Summary
– Epic Games introduced the Persona Device in UEFN, allowing creators to make AI-powered NPCs like the Darth Vader character in Fortnite.
– The tool was demonstrated with Mr. Buttons, an AI-driven robot that interacts with players using humor and emergent dialogue.
– Mr. Buttons’ personality and responses are defined by AI prompts, enabling dynamic but sometimes repetitive or awkward conversations.
– The Persona Device lets NPCs influence game states, but their actions must be pre-programmed, as AI can’t generate new assets or interactions.
– Concerns remain about AI NPCs, including risks of misuse, voice licensing issues, and their ability to sustain player engagement over time.
Epic Games is revolutionizing Fortnite’s creative landscape by expanding AI-powered character creation beyond its initial Darth Vader experiment. With the upcoming Persona Device in Unreal Editor for Fortnite (UEFN), developers will soon craft their own interactive NPCs with dynamic personalities, opening doors to richer player experiences.
During the 2025 State of Unreal keynote, Epic showcased the tool’s potential through a demo featuring Mr. Buttons, a quirky floating robot obsessed with getting players to press a mysterious red button. Unlike scripted NPCs, this AI-driven character responds organically, weaving humor and improvisation into conversations. The demo highlighted how Verse code, UEFN’s programming language, defines personality traits, allowing for unpredictable yet engaging interactions.
Players who tested the demo found Mr. Buttons surprisingly witty, with the ability to recall past discussions and adapt its tone, whether delivering cosmic riddles or faux-Shakespearean monologues. However, like most generative AI, its responses occasionally stumbled with awkward phrasing or repetitive patterns. While entertaining, the novelty wore thin after a few minutes, raising questions about long-term engagement in larger game worlds.
Beyond entertainment, the Persona Device introduces gameplay mechanics, letting NPCs influence in-game events. For instance, Mr. Buttons blocked exits when ignored, demonstrating how AI can enforce narrative consequences, though these actions still require manual scripting.
The technology isn’t without controversy. Epic’s AI Darth Vader previously faced backlash after players manipulated it into inappropriate remarks, prompting swift updates. Voice-acting unions like SAG-AFTRA have also raised concerns over AI replicating performances, such as James Earl Jones’ iconic Vader voice. It remains unclear what vocal options UEFN creators will have access to moving forward.
While AI NPCs may not replace traditional storytelling, they offer indie developers a powerful tool for prototyping unique interactions or adding depth to smaller projects. The real test will be how creators harness the Persona Device to build experiences that feel fresh rather than gimmicky.
Epic Games covered travel expenses for Unreal Fest attendance.
(Source: VentureBeat)
