NHL 27 Is Using AI-Generated Voiceover for In-Game Commentators, John Buccigross Says
EA Sports is incorporating generative AI into NHL 27’s in-game commentary system, according to veteran sports commentator John Buccigross. Buccigross revealed the development during an appearance on the Chirping Zebras podcast, where he discussed his ongoing work with EA Sports on the NHL game series.
Despite the introduction of AI-generated voice lines, Buccigross confirmed that he will still contribute authentic commentary to the game. He expressed a positive outlook on the technology after hearing samples of AI-generated voiceovers based on his own voice. “They’re using some AI now; they played me some stuff back of my voice,” Buccigross said. “It’s like ‘Wow, that’s pretty good!’ If that means less work but the same check, I’ll take it.”
The move reflects a growing trend of publishers exploring AI applications in game development and content creation. While largely supportive, Buccigross acknowledged the technology’s current limitations, noting that “sometimes AI will get something wrong.” This hybrid approach—combining authentic voice talent with AI-generated supplementary commentary—represents EA Sports’ strategy to enhance in-game commentary variety while managing production costs.