This book investigates the design, development, and application of intelligent virtual agents (IVAs) as sophisticated conversational partners and interactive systems. It explores the underlying technologies, including natural language processing, artificial intelligence, and human-computer interaction, that enable these agents to understand user intent, generate natural language responses, and exhibit believable behavior. The work aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of IVA research and its potential impact across various domains.

This book is regarded as a foundational text in the field of intelligent virtual agents, offering a detailed exploration of the technical and theoretical underpinnings of IVA development. Its comprehensive scope and focus on core research areas suggest it is intended for academics, researchers, and advanced students in artificial intelligence and human-computer interaction. The detailed examination of various agent architectures and interaction techniques positions it as a valuable resource for understanding the complexities of creating believable and effective virtual agents.