Umamusume Developer Apologizes, Vows No AI Use Without Notice
▼ Summary
– Cygames apologized for the concern caused by its initial, simplified announcement about creating an AI-focused subsidiary.
– The studio clarified that it does not use generative AI art in its current products, which are crafted by its staff’s manual work.
– Cygames stated it will not implement generative AI into its future products without giving prior notice to its community.
– The company expressed its highest regard for its community, including creators and artists, and aims to honor free expression.
– The article notes that AI discourse is widespread in the industry, with other Japanese studios like Square Enix and Sega also expressing interest in AI.
The video game developer Cygames has issued a clarifying statement about its position on artificial intelligence, following significant community reaction to its earlier announcement about forming an AI-focused subsidiary. The studio, best known for titles like Umamusume: Pretty Derby, has now explicitly stated it does not use AI-generated art in its current games and promises not to implement such technology without first informing its player base. This move aims to address growing concerns within the gaming community about the ethical use of generative AI in creative projects.
In a post on the social media platform X, the company apologized for the worry its initial, simplified announcement caused. It acknowledged that the original communication failed to engage with the ongoing social debates and complex problems surrounding generative AI tools. The studio emphasized that all its existing products are the result of the technical skill and dedicated manual labor of its human developers and artists.
Cygames reiterated its deep respect for the gaming community, including creators and artists, stating it holds them in the highest regard. The developer committed to continuing its support for free expression while working to deliver top-tier entertainment. The statement concluded with another apology to its fans and supporters for the confusion.
This incident highlights the intense and ongoing discourse about AI’s role in game development across the industry. Just recently, Hazelight founder Josef Fares shared his perspective, noting he doesn’t believe AI will “take over” and sees no issue with non-generative AI applications. Other major Japanese publishers, including Square Enix and Sega, have also publicly expressed interest in exploring AI technology.
Cygames enjoys a strong reputation, with Umamusume: Pretty Derby having won the Best Mobile Game award at last year’s The Game Awards. The company’s latest statement is a clear effort to maintain player trust by being transparent about its development practices amidst a rapidly changing technological landscape.
(Source: NewsAPI Tech Headlines)
