Astounded by the prevalence of Artificial Intelligence in modern video games
In the ever-evolving world of video games, the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming increasingly prevalent, particularly in visual asset generation, audio, and text. According to a report by Totally Human Media, approximately 60% of games that disclose AI use employ it for these purposes, with this trend notably on the rise, especially on platforms like Steam. In 2025, games declaring AI involvement have increased by 800%, now accounting for around 7% of the Steam library and 20% of new releases this year.
However, the debate over the use of AI in game design is far from over. Transparency and ethical acceptance have become central issues, with gamers expressing varying opinions on the matter. Some add AI-disclosing games to their ignore list, while others argue that boycotting all use of AI may leave them only with retro games consoles.
One notable case involved 11 Bit Studios, whose game 'The Alters' used generative AI for background texts and translations without initial disclosure, sparking backlash among fans. This situation highlighted the expectation among players that developers must always be transparent about AI use, regardless of how minimal it is. Even small percentages of AI-generated content can lead to distrust.
The question of how much AI use in game development is acceptable is a contentious one. While some players show fatigue or apathy towards AI use as it becomes widespread, others expect ethical and legal clarity, pushing developers to be forthright about their AI integration strategies.
Regulatory developments are also shaping this landscape. With the EU AI Act coming into effect on August 2, 2025, there is a move towards legal accountability and transparency in AI model training data and generative output disclosures. This marks a significant shift from the previously unregulated "AI wild west" period to one of enforceable rules emphasizing transparency without necessarily banning training on copyrighted data but demanding disclosure and responsibility.
Some games use large language models for generating voices, background music, text, story arcs, marketing materials, game descriptions, and for coding and flagging offensive material for removal. Examples include My Summer Car, Liar's Bar, and The Quinfall, all of which disclose AI use.
Reactions to these developments among gamers have been mixed. Some express disappointment at indie developers using AI instead of human artists, while others recognize the complexity of different forms and uses of AI in game design. Steam has introduced an AI disclosure tag to help players make informed choices about the games they play.
One game that has garnered attention is GenAI Roguelite, a text-based RPG entirely generated by AI. Despite its simplicity, GenAI Roguelite has an 82% positive score from 432 player reviews, with some enjoying it for its silly novelty.
In conclusion, the use of AI in game design is growing rapidly, but acceptance hinges crucially on transparency and ethical use. As regulatory frameworks evolve, developers will need to ensure they comply with data use and copyright considerations, while maintaining the artistic integrity that gamers value.
- In the world of video games, the employment of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is chiefly seen in visual asset generation, audio, and text, making up around 7% of the Steam library and 20% of new releases this year.
- The debate over the use of AI in game design revolves around transparency and ethical acceptance, with gamers showing varying opinions on the matter.
- Some games like My Summer Car, Liar's Bar, and The Quinfall use large language models for generating voices, music, text, and more, and disclose their AI use.
- Steam has introduced an AI disclosure tag to help players make informed choices about the games they play, acknowledging the complex nature of AI in game design.
- In the case of 11 Bit Studios' game 'The Alters', the use of generative AI for background texts and translations without initial disclosure sparked backlash among fans.
- As the EU AI Act comes into effect on August 2, 2025, there is a shift towards legal accountability and transparency in AI model training data and generative output disclosures.
- GenAI Roguelite, a text-based RPG entirely generated by AI, has an 82% positive score from 432 player reviews, highlighting that the acceptance of AI in game design can stem from its novelty and artistic appeal.
