Who claims AI doesn’t belong in gaming?
By Timothy Beck Werth on March 16, 2026
“Fabula Rasa: Dead Man Talking” is a VR interactive game that debuted at the SXSW 2026 XR Exhibition. I experienced various virtual and augmented reality experiences at the event, but “Fabula Rasa” left a lasting impression on me regarding the future of gaming.
“Fabula Rasa” features AI-generated, improvised conversations. Players create their characters, and interactions are powered by LLMs, leading to thought-provoking questions about the role of NPCs in games.
Imagine playing “Red Dead Redemption” or “Skyrim,” where every character engages in real-time conversations. This would redefine RPG role-playing, allowing players to create unique stories and quests.
What is “Fabula Rasa: Dead Man Talking”?
“Fabula Rasa” is developed by the Brazilian XR studio Arvore and is still in experimental stages on a Meta Quest VR headset. In the game, you are a death-row prisoner in a medieval kingdom. Your interactions determine your fate, whether you’re killed or spared.
The game is an improv experience, allowing players to engage with characters in creative ways, leading to a unique ending and changing character dynamics based on actions.
A game where choices matter
While currently more of a concept than a complete game, the idea behind it is intriguing. It demonstrates how AI can enhance gaming immersion, and if applied to AAA titles, it could change gaming standards.
Arvore uses models like Claude for dialogue and ElevenLabs for audio, enabling rich conversations. Players can spontaneously create dialogue through these technologies, which are still evolving.
AI in gaming isn’t going away
Gamer sentiment towards AI may be negative, but Arvore ensures AI doesn’t replace human developers. It’s used to enhance storytelling, and AI-driven immersion remains challenging for the industry.
Though controversies surround AI usage, Arvore emphasizes the importance of AI as a storytelling medium rather than a production shortcut.
AI-powered immersion still faces challenges
“Fabula Rasa” isn’t commercially released yet due to cost and latency issues. However, these obstacles are likely surmountable.
For now, “Fabula Rasa” remains a showcase at SXSW XR Exhibition, sparking thoughts about vast implications.
Learn more about “Fabula Rasa: Dead Man Talking” on the Arvore website.