Crimson Desert, an open-world RPG, has hit a rough patch following its launch. Players discovered that the game features AI-generated art, which was not intended to be part of the final product. This oversight raises concerns about the use of artificial intelligence in game development and the importance of transparency with players.
The game's developer, Pearl Abyss, has acknowledged the issue and apologized for the mistake. The company revealed that it used experimental AI generative tools to create some 2D visual props, but failed to replace them before the game's release. As a result, players took to social media to report potential generative AI usage, prompting Pearl Abyss to conduct a comprehensive audit of in-game assets.
The game's Steam page now includes a disclosure about the use of generative AI technology in creating some 2D prop assets. These assets are later replaced, but the company is taking steps to ensure that all affected content is removed. Pearl Abyss has also promised to review its communication with players to provide more transparency and consistency.
The incident highlights the need for developers to be more mindful of AI-generated content and to clearly disclose its use to players. This is not an isolated incident, as other developers, such as Embark Studios, are also taking steps to replace AI-generated material in their games.
The use of AI-generated art in games raises important questions about authenticity and transparency in the gaming industry. As AI technology continues to evolve, developers must be more careful about how they use it and ensure that players are aware of its presence. In Nigeria, where the gaming industry is growing rapidly, developers must take note of this trend and prioritize transparency in their own projects.
