AI is sometimes used in board games to refer to the set of If/Then decisions or tables, random or not, the imaginary player or competitor might take. For example, “The robber piece always moves towards the richest player.”
Rarely does “AI” mean actual artificial intelligence in board game rule books or reviews. Now, Mattel has raised the bar and is calling Pictionary Vs. AI is the first-ever board game to integrate AI technology. It’s a narrow AI, but it’s definitely not a set of instruction tables.
Sven Gerjets, Executive Vice President and Chief Technology Officer, at Mattel, told the press;
Mattel is excited to introduce Pictionary Vs. AI, bringing technological advancement to create new and exciting challenges to fans who love the classic game. At Mattel, we create innovative products and experiences that inspire, entertain, and develop children through play. There are many play patterns to explore around new tech to enhance engagement with physical toys.”
I wonder what the digital gurus at Hasbro’s Wizards of the Coast make of that.
It’s Google tech. Mattel’s new Pictionary uses the “Quick, Drawl!” artificial intelligence, which I’ve used loads and helped train the AI. It’s free to play.
You need a smartphone to play, and that’s not included with the game. Globally, Pictionary is the 3rd most popular family game according to Circana’s 2022 stats, and this version costs $24.99. You can see why the smartphone isn’t included.
If you can trust your kids alone with the phone, they should be okay with the AI. Mattel notes that ESRB has rated the game and follows COPPA compliance rules with an 8+ age score attached to the board game.
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