Bandai Namco, the celebrated video diversion company, is beneath observation for its English naming of Naruto x Boruto:
Extreme Ninja Storm Associations, with charges proposing the utilize of Fake Insights (AI) to modify voice line readings. The fighting game, based on the popular anime, has drawn criticism from fans who have noticed particular inflections in some episodes of the English dubbing, causing concern and discussion within the community.


Unusual inflections make eyebrows

The controversy over the English dubbing arose when fans expressed their dissatisfaction with some line deliveries, pointing out strange inflections that deviated from the expected style of the series. ShonenGames, a major source of anime and game content, shared a tweet on November 15, 2023, featuring a specific line along with a comment expressing disappointment with the redone voice lines. The game's voiceovers, including Maile Flanagan (English voiceover for Naruto) and Michael Schwalbe (voiceover for Kawaki), also joined the discussion. Flanagan, in response to a tweet about a discordant rebuttal, disassociated herself from the performance, stating that she had not interpreted the rebuttal in that way. Similarly, Schwalbe expressed surprise and dissatisfaction, stating that the recorded lines did not reflect his efforts during the recording sessions.

The actors of the voice respond


The reactions of Maile Flanagan and Michael Schwalbe fuelled the controversy. Flanagan, denying any involvement in the dubious line, pointed out that no director of Naruto's voice or games would have asked him to deliver a line that way. Schwalbe, expressing disbelief in the chosen delivery, took proactive steps by subjecting the lines to an AI detection program.

AI detection results cause controversy


In a astounding turn of occasions, Michael Schwalbe's AI discovery test recommended the plausibility of AI inclusion within the English naming prepare. Despite the inherent limitations and occasional unreliability of these programs, the results have raised the eyebrows of the gaming community. Schwalbe, highlighting the supposed use of generative AI in a union game, pointed out that such practices are generally prohibited.

Bandai Namco's response


At this time, Bandai Namco has not released an official statement regarding the allegations regarding the use of AI in the English dubbing of Naruto x Boruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm Connections. The company's silence on the issue has fuelled speculation and intensified discussions within the gaming community. The controversy surrounding the English dubbing of Naruto x Boruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm Connections has added another layer to the ongoing talk about the use of AI in the video game industry. As accusations persist and fans seek clarification, the spotlight remains on Bandai Namco, raising questions about transparency in the development and localization processes. The gamer community is looking forward to an official response from the company, hoping for transparency and resolution of concerns raised by fans and voice actors. In a year marked by increased scrutiny of the use of AI in games, including controversies involving titles such as The Finals and Persona, Bandai Namco finds himself in the midst of a broader conversation within the industry about the ethical implications of integrating AI into creative processes. The final resolution of this controversy will undoubtedly have implications for the future of game development and for fans' expectations regarding the authenticity of the vocal performances of their favorite titles.