Submitter: Starlight - (http://www.joystiq.com)
Site Tags: valve researching sign language half-life 2 episode 3
Category: PC/Tech
Valve's Gabe Newell appears to have recently conducted a focus group with deaf individuals in order to learn more about sign language and how it can be applied to games, notably the upcoming Half-Life 2: Episode 3.

Why? To help develop Alyx's character, and further the animation technology implemented in the Half-Life games.

Newell explains, to quote: "[Alyx] had a crush on someone who was hearing impaired, so she taught Dog how to sign so she could practice. Something happened, maybe, the person is off fighting the Combine someplace else, but that's why she and Dog would start signing with each other when they wanted to communicate without making noise, or communicate without other people knowing ... It gave us the excuse to build the technology for signing."

The focus group responds by noting the importance of facial expression whilst signing. While the Half-Life franchise has been known for its believable facial animation, it might take even more to fully realize the nuances necessary for authentic signing. It'll be interesting to see if Valve is up to the challenge.


Valve Researching Sign Language for Use in Half-Life 2: Episode 3

Posted 106 days ago      1 Comment      PermaLink


Comments

#1
By pablo on 15 weeks ago:
I would love if this became a trend and impaired people could have the chance to become more involved in the gaming community! Although I have lost respect towards valve for the treatment they give to ps3 because of their lack of commitment towards a platform that represents a challenge.

Nonetheless, they have great games and initiatives such as this one!



Post a Reply


Please Register or Login to Reply!



Affiliates | Categories | Contact Us | PS3 Hacks | PS3 Reviews | Privacy/Terms | Copyright © 2009 PlayStation 3 News.