Date Time
University of Toronto startup draws on AI, linguistics to power facial animation in video games JALI Research, which grew out of research in U of T’s department of computer science, has developed a suite of tools that power hyper-realistic facial animations for video game characters (image by JALI Research)
A University of Toronto startup is spurring the success of one of the best-selling video games of the past year – the dystopian action role-playing game Cyberpunk 2077.
Growing out of research in the department of computer science, JALI Research has developed a suite of tools that power the game’s hyper-realistic facial animations, allowing characters to convincingly deliver dialogue in different languages.
Cyberpunk 2077 proves that good animation is no longer optional
As the burdens on triple-A development continue to mount up, quality animation isn t an area publishers can afford to ignore
“Reverse and hold at 38.5”, instructs Captain Anderson. The video feed pauses on the metallic tendrils of an unknowable behemoth as it descends from the skies of Eden Prime. We hold on Captain Anderson’s expression. He maintains his composure, as any good Alliance captain would. “Grab your gear and meet us in the cargo hold”. He looks back to the monitor. His furrowed brow slowly subsides, a subtle flicker of apprehension. Not much was said during this scene, and very little was needed. The facial expressions of Anderson and his Spectre guest communicated the threat with perfect clarity. The Reapers, as they would later become known, were no ordinary threat.
There are a lot of big names associated with the upcoming Cyberpunk 2077.
The eagerly-anticipated sci-fi RPG is being made by Polish studio CD Projekt of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt fame. The Matrix and John Wick star Keanu Reeves is performing the role of Johnny Silverhand in the game, while punk legends Refused and pop sensation Grimes are among the musical acts performing on the soundtrack.
One name that you ll be forgiven for not being familiar with is Jali Research. This is a facial animation company based in Toronto, Canada that has helped CD Projekt with the localisation process of Cyberpunk 2077, in a manner of speaking.