Darth Vader Joins Fortnite with AI Interaction

An exciting new feature has been launched that allows players to interact with an AI version of Darth Vader directly through their microphones.

In collaboration with Disney, Fortnite has introduced AI characters that can engage in real-time conversations with players. This new Darth Vader can answer questions and offer game strategies, according to Fortnite’s announcement.

The technology behind this innovation utilizes Google’s Gemini 2.0. As Epic Games describes it, this model generates responses from Vader.

The iconic voice of Darth Vader, originally performed by the late James Earl Jones, has been recreated using ElevenLabs’ Flash V2.5 model.

Jones’s family noted in a statement that they believe Darth Vader’s voice is integral to the Star Wars experience, expressing hope that fans of all ages can enjoy this collaboration, which aims to connect longtime admirers of the character with a new generation.

Importantly, the game’s website assures players that their audio and transcription are not stored but rather used solely to generate Vader’s responses. Epic Games also states that player interactions are not employed to train AI models.

Interestingly, some players have quickly discovered ways to provoke the AI into using profanity. For instance, Australian streamer Kathleen Bersten, known as “LoserFruit,” shared a video encouraging Darth Vader to curse during gameplay.

Other users have reported similar successes, managing to get the AI to repeat inappropriate phrases. Generally, Fortnite includes features that allow players to report such actions.

Additionally, the game requires that players under 13, or those below the digital consent age in their location, obtain parental permission to speak with Darth Vader, ensuring a level of oversight for younger gamers.