EA Sports uses generative AI for NHL 27 commentary
Broadcaster John Buccigross reveals synthetic audio is supplementing in-game play-by-play to increase content volume.
EA Sports is utilizing generative AI to supplement voiceover lines for in-game commentators in the upcoming NHL 27. The move marks a significant shift in how the publisher handles broadcast assets for its sports simulation titles, aiming to increase content volume while reducing the overhead of massive recording sessions.
Veteran sports commentator John Buccigross, who serves as one of the game's primary broadcast voices alongside Darren Pang, revealed the integration during an appearance on the Chirping Zebras podcast. Buccigross noted that the company is using AI to generate lines based on his voice, stating, "They're using some AI now; they played me some stuff back of my voice... If that means less work but the same check, I'll take it." The game is scheduled for a global release on September 11, 2026.
The struggle with sports vernacular
While the technical quality of the synthetic audio is high, the transition to AI has not been without friction. Buccigross highlighted that the technology occasionally struggles with the specific nuances of sports terminology. In one instance, he noted that the AI referred to stadium seating as "chairs" rather than the industry-standard "seats," illustrating the gap between general language models and the specialized vocabulary required for professional sports broadcasting.
A broader industry shift
This integration is part of a wider trend within EA Sports to embed generative AI across its portfolio. By using synthetic media, developers can theoretically create a more dynamic and varied commentary experience without requiring talent to spend hundreds of hours in a recording booth for every possible game scenario.
However, the move comes at a time of heightened tension across the gaming and entertainment industries. The use of AI for voice and asset generation has faced consistent pushback from creators and fans concerned about authenticity and the potential displacement of human labor. While Buccigross expressed personal satisfaction with the arrangement, the broader industry remains divided on the ethics of synthetic voice cloning.
What to watch
As the September release date approaches, the industry will be watching to see if the "uncanny valley" of AI commentary persists or if EA Sports can refine the vernacular to a professional standard. It remains to be seen if other broadcast partners will voice similar support for the technology or if the reliance on synthetic audio will lead to further friction between publishers and talent.