Nintendo Denies AI Use in Mario Kart World Development Amid Billboard Speculation

Nintendo has firmly denied allegations that it employed AI-generated images for billboards in the eagerly awaited game, Mario Kart World. The controversy erupted following a recent Nintendo Treehouse livestream that showcased the game, where observant fans noticed unusual images on several in-game advertising boards, including a construction site, a bridge, and an oddly proportioned car, sparking speculation about the use of AI.

While it's common for pre-release games to feature placeholder graphics, Nintendo was quick to dismiss any suggestions of AI involvement. In a statement provided to Eurogamer, the company affirmed, "AI-generated images were not used in the development of Mario Kart World."

The topic of generative AI is currently a focal point within the creative industries, particularly in video game development. Beyond the ethical and copyright concerns, labor unions have voiced worries about AI's potential to displace jobs, prompting calls from video game performers for enhanced protections against its use.

In September of the previous year, Nintendo's iconic developer Shigeru Miyamoto indicated that the company prefers to take a unique approach to AI, distinct from other industry trends. This stance contrasts with comments from EA CEO Andrew Wilson, who described AI as "the very core of our business," a perspective further analyzed by IGN. Miyamoto elaborated on Nintendo's philosophy in an interview with The New York Times, emphasizing the company's desire to differentiate itself:

"It might seem like we are just going the opposite direction for the sake of going in the opposite direction, but it really is trying to find what makes Nintendo special. There is a lot of talk about A.I., for example. When that happens, everyone starts to go in the same direction, but that is where Nintendo would rather go in a different direction."

These sentiments echo those expressed by Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa in July, who acknowledged the creative potential of generative AI but also highlighted concerns regarding intellectual property rights. Furukawa stated, "We have decades of know-how in creating the best gaming experiences for our players. While we are open to utilizing technological developments, we will work to continue delivering value that is unique to Nintendo and cannot be created by technology alone."

As the gaming community eagerly anticipates the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2, set for June 5, Mario Kart World stands out as a console exclusive. Pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2 commenced on April 24 at a fixed price of $449.99, and as expected, they sold out rapidly. For those interested in securing their console, check out IGN's Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order guide.

Answer

See Results