The Finals Update Lets AI Commentators Say Player Names

Embark Studios has announced Dynamic Commentary for The Finals, a new AI-powered feature that allows in-game announcers to recognize players by their usernames during important moments in multiplayer matches.

The feature will debut in beta on October 20, 2026, alongside the game's upcoming PRIME TIME update.

According to the official announcement from Embark Studios, the update will introduce several improvements to the game's presentation, making its virtual game show environment more immersive.

Dynamic Commentary builds on the existing announcer system featuring Scotty and June, who provide commentary throughout matches.

With the new technology, Scotty can identify the contestant responsible for certain gameplay events and include their display name in his commentary.

For example, the announcer may recognize a player following an important elimination or a successful series of revives, making individual performances feel more significant.

The system uses AI-generated speech technology, expanding the voice synthesis tools already used by Embark Studios.

However, the developer is initially limiting the number of supported gameplay situations to maintain consistent audio quality and ensure the commentary sounds natural.

Embark audio director Carl Strandberg explained that the controlled rollout will help the team preserve Scotty's familiar personality while evaluating the new system.

The feature also raises questions about how unusual or inappropriate usernames will be handled, although the full moderation process has not been detailed.

Dynamic Commentary is one of several additions planned for PRIME TIME, which also introduces major arena improvements, updated destruction mechanics, and redesigned interface elements.

The update is scheduled to arrive on October 20, with Dynamic Commentary initially available as a beta feature.