A Unified Representation for Dialogue
A Unified Representation for Dialogue and Action in Computer Games: Bridging the Gap Between Talkers and Fighters by Philip Hanson A Thesis Submitted to the Faculty of the WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE In partial fulfillment of the requirements for the Degree of Master of Science in Computer Science by May 2010 APPROVED: Professor Charles Rich, Major Thesis Advisor Professor Michael Gennert, Head of Department Abstract Most computer game characters are either \talkers," i.e., they engage in dialogue with the player, or “fighters," i.e., they engage in actions against or with the player, and that may affect the vir- tual world. The reason for this dichotomy is a corresponding gap in the underlying development technologies used for each kind of character. Using concepts from task modeling and computa- tional linguistics, we have developed a new kind of character-authoring technology which bridges this gap, thereby making it possible to create richer and more interesting characters for computer games. Acknowledgements I would like to thank my advisor, Prof. Charles Rich, for his dedication, attention to detail, and professionalism in preparing this thesis, as well as the Computer Science department and faculty for their support during my graduate studies. This thesis would not have been possible without the encouragement and patient endurance of my family. I would especially like to express gratitude to my parents, John and Carolyn Hanson, for their wisdom and love during this extended process. Thank you for providing a model I can aspire to emulate. Finally, I would like to thank the network of friends, colleagues, and mentors who provided inspiration, insight, and stimulating conversation to keep me going.
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