Generative AI
Ongoing coverage on Generative AI.
Latest coverage
Flathub moves to ban nearly all apps and submissions made with generative AI
Flathub, a popular Linux application distribution platform, has implemented a new policy that largely bans applications and submissions created with generative AI. While exceptions may be made for mature projects, the policy explicitly disallows AI-generated code, documentation, and submission processes, aiming to clarify rules for developers and users.
Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney throws shade at Valve / Gabe Newell for Steam Deck pricing
Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney criticized Valve and Gabe Newell's pricing strategy for the Steam Deck on social media. Sweeney's comments, referencing component costs and economic disruptions, were met with counter-criticism regarding Epic's own recent layoffs and Sweeney's support for generative AI.
Valve's Gabe Newell attacked by Epic's Tim Sweeney over Steam Deck price hike
Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney criticized Valve boss Gabe Newell following a significant price increase for the Steam Deck, attributing the hike to global logistical challenges and component costs. Sweeney's comments were met with scrutiny due to Epic Games' own recent price adjustments and layoffs, as well as the role of AI data centers in exacerbating memory shortages.
Generative AI finally sends Hideo Kojima into space in new short film with Death Stranding 2 partner Nicolas Winding Refn, which was immediately blasted as AI slop
Hideo Kojima has appeared in a new short film by Nicolas Winding Refn, created with generative AI, which has been met with disappointment from fans. The film, shown at the Cannes Film Festival as part of Prada Mode, depicts Kojima traveling through space. Many critics and fans have expressed dismay at the use of AI technology in the project, citing poor visual quality and a perceived lack of effort.
Epic Games Removes Porsche “Concept Image” That Sure Looks Like AI
Epic Games removed a concept art image from Fortnite featuring a Porsche vehicle after players speculated it was created using generative AI. While Epic Games stated the image was provided by Porsche and created using Unreal Engine tools, the presence of a Riot Games logo on a balloon in the image remains unexplained, fueling further AI speculation.
World of Tanks: HEAT released free on Steam and works on Linux / SteamOS
World of Tanks: HEAT, a free-to-play hero-driven tank action game, has launched on Steam and is compatible with Linux and SteamOS, earning a Steam Deck Verified rating. The game features cross-platform play across Steam, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and GeForce NOW. Despite a rough initial reception with mostly negative user reviews, Wargaming has confirmed the use of generative AI solely for development support, with all final content created by human developers.
Ubisoft confirms new Assassin's Creed, Far Cry, and Ghost Recon games are in the works and will launch by March 2029, alongside the 'first playable Generative AI experience'
Ubisoft has announced plans to release new titles in its Assassin's Creed, Far Cry, and Ghost Recon franchises by March 2029, aiming for higher quality standards following recent restructuring. The company is also developing its first playable Generative AI experience to enhance player engagement and development efficiency. Despite a projected low point in free cash flow for FY2026-27 due to restructuring costs and a softer release slate, Ubisoft is focused on growing its live service games and delivering new content.
Capcom says generative AI "still cannot match" the devs who make Resident Evil and Monster Hunter, but it is…
Capcom executive Shinichi Inoue stated that the company is not using generative AI for asset creation in games like Resident Evil and Monster Hunter Stories 3, as their human developers produce superior results. While Capcom explored the possibility last year, they have decided against implementing the technology for asset generation due to its current limitations compared to their development team's capabilities.
Ubisoft confirms new Assassin's Creed, Far Cry, and Ghost Recon games are coming before April 2029
Ubisoft has confirmed that new installments in the Assassin's Creed, Far Cry, and Ghost Recon franchises are slated for release before March 2029. The company also highlighted its accelerated investment in generative AI technologies, including its "Teammates" experience.
Ubisoft says expect more Assassin's Creed, Far Cry, and Ghost Recon in the next 3 years, and "a return to…
Ubisoft plans to release more titles in its flagship Assassin's Creed, Far Cry, and Ghost Recon franchises over the next three years, aiming for higher quality standards and a sustained release cadence. The company is also increasing investment in generative AI technology and in-game AI companions to enhance player experiences.
Gemini Omni multimodal generative AI platform announced at Google I/O
Google announced Gemini Omni, a new all-encompassing generative AI service that consolidates its existing AI models. This platform aims to provide a unified generative AI experience.
Google's Gemini Omni can generate 'anything from any input,' starting with video
Google announced its new AI model, Gemini Omni, capable of generating content from any input, including video. This announcement was made alongside other Gemini updates aimed at AI creators.
Nintendo’s stock has climbed as much as 6.8% thanks to AI fatigue
Nintendo's stock saw a significant increase of 6.8%, marking the third consecutive day of gains, as investors reportedly experience 'AI fatigue' and seek alternative investments. Bandai Namco Holdings and Konami Group also experienced stock rises exceeding 9%. Capcom reiterated its policy of not directly implementing generative AI-created materials into its games, though it will use AI for efficiency improvements.
AI Yi-Yi!
The publisher of Far Far West stated they do not collaborate with companies reliant on generative AI. Meanwhile, NVIDIA has launched its first CPU designed for AI agents, which has been adopted by leading AI laboratories.
As Steam early access sensation Far Far West sells over 1 million copies in three weeks, publisher Fireshine Games rejects generative AI
The co-op shooter Far Far West has achieved over 1 million sales on Steam during its early access period. Publisher Fireshine Games has stated they will not work with developers who rely on generative AI for core game creation, though they acknowledge AI's use in tools like code completion.
How Fireshine Games backed a winner with Far Far West
UK publisher Fireshine Games has achieved significant success with the chaotic cyberpunk cowboy game Far Far West, developed by Evil Raptor. The game sold over one million units in two weeks after launching in Steam Early Access. Fireshine's Chief Portfolio Officer Jasper Tanner-Barnes and CEO Brian Foote discuss their approach to game discovery, emphasizing a broad view of data and trusting developer partnerships. The company also maintains a firm stance against the use of generative AI in core game creation.
Far Far West publisher says "We don't work with partners that are relying on generative AI"
Fireshine Games, the publisher of Far Far West, has stated it will not partner with developers who rely on generative AI for game art, though it permits the use of AI development tools like code completion. CEO Brian Foote emphasized this as a firm 'red line' for the company. This stance echoes similar declarations from other publishers regarding the use of AI in game creation.
Final Fantasy 6 remake AI slop wows series creator Hironobu Sakaguchi, fellow JRPG veteran tells him to stop but agrees…
Hironobu Sakaguchi, the creator of Final Fantasy, was impressed by a fan-made AI-generated remake of Final Fantasy 6. Akitoshi Kawazu pointed out it was AI but agreed that a full remake of the beloved JRPG would be well-received. The article discusses the potential for a 2.5D remake or a larger project following the Final Fantasy 7 Remake series.
Meet Seed, the planet-sized society simulator
Seed is a new society simulation game from Klang Games aiming to simulate an entire planet with tens of thousands of persistent, semi-autonomous inhabitants called Seedlings. Players will shape the economy, laws, and relationships, with the game leveraging generative AI for deeper interactions. The game is set to launch in early access this summer on PC, with a Steam release to follow.
The Sunday Papers
Amazon Game Studios cancelled its AAA project 'Project Trident', which utilized large language models for dialogue, despite it being a mandated initiative. The article also touches on Crimson Desert's unexpected birdwatching community, a personal anecdote about discovering trance music, and the epidemiological fascination with cruise ship outbreaks.