Nintendo Denies AI Involvement in Mario Kart World After Fan Speculation
Nintendo has responded to speculation that AI-generated images were used in the development of Mario Kart World, the highly anticipated launch title for the upcoming Switch 2 console. The controversy arose after viewers of a recent Nintendo Treehouse livestream noticed certain in-game billboards featuring artwork that resembled AI-generated content.
The images in question, displayed on billboards lining the racetracks, included a bridge with "wonky lines and oddly-placed elements," a skyscraper under construction with bizarrely-oriented floors, and a car with exaggerated windows. These details sparked debate among fans, with some suggesting they were indicative of AI-generated imagery.
However, Nintendo swiftly refuted these claims. "AI-generated images were not used in the development of Mario Kart World," a Nintendo spokesperson stated in response to Eurogamer's inquiry.
Digital Foundry also weighed in on the discussion, acknowledging the lower-quality nature of some billboard images. However, they emphasized the importance of waiting for the final product before making definitive judgments. It’s important to note that the version of Mario Kart World showcased during the Treehouse event likely wasn’t the final build, making the presence of placeholder visuals a norm during development phases.
The possibility remains that these visuals are simply works in progress. As Nintendo continues to refine and polish the game leading up to its launch, these billboards could undergo significant changes. Some speculate the images might not be up to par and simply the background billboards are works of artists who made some mistakes.
With Shigeru Miyamoto previously stating that Nintendo would "rather go in a different direction" regarding AI, the company's denial seems consistent with their stance on the technology. The final version of the game, set to launch alongside the Nintendo Switch 2 on June 5th, will ultimately reveal whether these images remain, are updated, or are entirely replaced.
Whether a result of human error or placeholders, these billboard images certainly ignited a conversation. Will the final release feature these peculiar images, or will Nintendo’s art team deliver a polished, AI-free visual experience? What do you think? Let us know your theories in the comments below.
