SOE Picks Kynapse AI For DC Comics Game

AI middleware developer Kynogon has announced today that Kynapse, its AI engine, has been chosen by Sony Online Entertainment for the development of a DC Comics-based MMO for PlayStation 3, licensed by Warner Bros Interactive Entertainment. The Kynapse middleware solution includes specific features for next-generation platforms, including hierarchical 3D pathfinding compatible with streaming mechanisms, and 3D dynamic pathfinding for full physics games. The software also offers automatic 3D perception and pathfinding data generation supporting very large maps, 3D topology dynamic analysis, team coordination mechanisms, and AI architecture with high level performance. Kynapse is available for PS3, Xbox, Xbox 360, GameCube, Wii and PC. The engine has been used in the development of titles including Crackdown, Alone in the Dark 5, Fable 2, Sacred 2 and The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar, and Kynogon counts developers Electronic Arts, Activision, Bethesda Softworks, Digital Illusion CE, Lionhead Studios, Real Time Worlds, SEGA, Sony Online Entertainement, Spark Unlimited, THQ and Turbine among its clients. John Blakely, VP of Development at SOE’s Austin, Texas studio, said, “We were looking for an AI solution that would be capable of dealing with dynamic large scale worlds in a seamless manner. By using Kynapse we have a powerful technology to manage extremely dynamic environments and very large maps." He continued: "Our team can concentrate on the creative elements of the game faster in the development process, and thus enhance the game-play experience."