Epic Games Store Welcomes AI-Generated Content
Epic Games has made a significant announcement this week, stating that its digital storefront will now allow games that incorporate AI-generated art, text, and other elements. This move stands in contrast to competitor Valve, which has taken steps to block such content on its popular PC platform Steam.
This difference in policy marks a rare public divide between these gaming giants, both of whom are vying to be the preferred choice for developers seeking exclusive releases.
In response to Steam’s ban on AI content, Y Combinator CEO Garry Tan expressed his disagreement on Twitter, stating that “No AI in games is idiotic.” Echoing this sentiment, Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney criticized Valve’s cautious approach and encouraged publishers to upload their content to the Epic Games Store instead.
AI-Generated Content Does Not Mean AI-Generated Games
Sweeney emphasized the importance of distinguishing between the contributions made by humans and those made by AI in game development. He compared this concept to “fair use” in copyright law and stated that the potential for AI to be used for copying purposes is not the usual case.
According to Sweeney, games that combine human and machine creativity should be evaluated holistically under existing laws, rather than being rejected solely based on AI involvement.
Epic Welcomes AI, Steam Slams Door Shut
Epic’s endorsement of AI comes as Valve reportedly enforces an undisclosed policy of rejecting games that include generative content with potential copyright issues. In a recent case, Valve declined a game submission due to the use of AI-generated art assets with uncertain legal ownership.
Epic Games has a history of embracing technologies banned by its competitors, such as blockchain-based games. In response to Valve’s ban on blockchain games, Sweeney announced that the Epic Games Store would welcome games utilizing blockchain tech and AI-generated content.
With Epic and Valve presenting contrasting views on the role of generative tools in game development, developers now face a more divided landscape when choosing where to release their innovative creations.
Hot Take:
The contrasting approaches of Epic Games and Valve highlight the ongoing debate around AI-generated content in the gaming industry. While Epic Games embraces new technologies, Valve has chosen to be cautious and restrict such content on its platform. This divide presents developers with a choice between platforms that have differing stances on the use of AI in game development. Ultimately, this debate reflects the evolving nature of the industry and the need for a nuanced approach to AI’s role in shaping the future of gaming.
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