The release of a new Naruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm game rarely makes waves on the internet. It’s not a knock on them, it’s just how it is. These relatively niche fighting games cater to a certain subset of fighting game fans that, while they’re still numbering in the millions, never really make that much of a fuss. But, the thing about catering to these fans is that they demand a level of consistency and quality in their games, which, according to some, the latest entry just couldn’t meet. Specifically, Naruto X Boruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm Connections has kicked up controversy around some of the English voice acting in the game. Apparently, several lines delivered by prominent characters feature unnaturally stilted reads or jarring tonal shifts, leading to accusations of AI manipulation.
In one much-scrutinized clip, the iconic hero Naruto utters the phrase “wake you up” with a sudden pitch change that’s distinctly out of character. Fans swiftly unearthed older recordings of the same line reading from previous franchise entries, highlighting a stark difference in quality and delivery.
English voice actress Maile Flanagan, who has portrayed Naruto across various properties since 2005, assured she did not perform the suspect read in that manner. Flanagan noted neither she nor any director attached to the Naruto IP would have approved such an delivery. Her assurances throw into question how certain questionable line reads ended up in the final game.
Okay, this needs an explanation ASAP. I sent a couple of these clips to a friend. He ran the audio through an AI detection program and look at these results. First is Wake You Up, then power of gaaahhd.
This was a union game. Generative AI use is supposed to be forbidden. https://t.co/D7QbTxup2H pic.twitter.com/nfKblOEWJ8
— Michael Schwalbe: h̵u̵m̵a̵n̵ a̵c̵t̵o̵r̵ concept (@WhatHeSaidVO) November 23, 2023
Further investigation and comparison revealed other characters likewise received odd new takes on familiar voiceover lines that had been competently delivered in earlier Naruto games. Most egregiously, the distinct shift in pronunciation of the word “god” in one attack shout stands out as a glaring discrepancy.
Such inconsistencies, combined with the unnatural quality of some of the disputed lines, fueled speculation regarding use of AI processing to manipulate performances without proper context or, to make matters worse, consent. Kawaki voice actor Michael Schwalbe lent weight to suspicions by sharing that an AI detection analysis of some audio found a blend of human and machine elements.
Schwalbe further highlighted ethical concerns by noting that the production adhered to union standards that prohibit undisclosed AI usage. If substantiated, the exploitation of voice data to artificially generate performance creates causes for misconduct inquiries and grievances around contracted obligations.
Allegations also connect to recent unrest around voice acting standards in the gaming industry, including controversies like deepfaked Skyrim mods and an AI cover song in Persona 5 – both created without permission from affected talent. The growing Accessibility movement has likewise necessitated important discussions around potential marginalization of specific communities in AI casting decisions.
As of yet, publisher Bandai Namco has not provided clarification on the origins of the abnormal Ultimate Ninja Storm Connections voice work. However, this debacle has led to unease hanging over a legacy franchise that has seemingly failed to extend best practices around fair and ethical treatment of its voice contributors, which is especially crucial in a climate of increased sensitivity to integrity, diversity, and artist rights.
Still, with detection tools prone to flaws, no irrefutable evidence yet definitively proves AI impersonation took place. Nonetheless, serious questions linger, and more transparency from involved parties could help reassure wary fans and industry partners alike. Because artificial replication of an actor’s craft without approval cuts against values vital to inclusive, compassionate progress.
Naruto X Boruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm Connections previously went viral for lumping Xbox Series S players alongside Xbox One and PlayStation 4 players in online multiplayer due to a noted performance disparity.
