Intel recently showcased its new mobile CPU, the Core Ultra 200HX, at an event in China, highlighting the AI capabilities it brings to gaming. Featuring a Neural Processing Unit (NPU), this CPU can assist players in certain games, particularly “Black Myth: Wukong.” While AI technology is often associated with general computing, Intel’s latest offering suggests it can also enhance the gaming experience. The NPU in the Intel Core Ultra 200HX is designed to provide players with helpful features, such as advice on defeating challenging bosses. In a demonstration, the NPU was shown assisting players by offering insights into the gameplay and mechanics of various challenges, highlighting its potential impact on gaming.

However, the effectiveness of this AI assistance ultimately depends on game developers’ willingness to integrate such features into their games. For instance, ASUS’s ROG Phone 9 series utilizes AI in games like “League of Legends: Wild Rift,” which allows the AI to automate skill leveling during gameplay. Players need to pre-select the skills for the AI to manage effectively during intense moments. This indicates a growing trend of leveraging AI in gaming, where it can facilitate decision-making in high-stakes scenarios.

Intel’s application of AI within games is not intended to play on behalf of the user. Instead, it aims to provide valuable information that can help players overcome difficulties. In “Black Myth: Wukong,” the AI aims to educate players about game mechanics, which can be particularly beneficial during tough boss fights. Additionally, Intel claims that the Core Ultra 200HX’s NPU enhances gaming performance.

During demonstrations, the CPU achieved a frame rate of 108 frames per second with AI assistance, compared to 94 fps when reliant solely on the GPU. However, the demonstration’s controlled conditions may not reflect real-world performance levels, leaving consumers eager to experience these advancements firsthand.