After facing criticism from observant Magic: The Gathering fans, Wizards of the Coast has admitted to using generative AI tools in a promotional image. The image featured five new MTG cards placed on a desk in a steampunk-themed apothecary-bookstore. Fans noticed that certain details, such as the lightbulb filaments and wiring on the desk, displayed characteristics typical of AI-generated art.
Wizards of the Coast initially denied using AI tools, but later deleted the marketing post and acknowledged the use of generative AI. This incident follows a prior controversy involving the use of AI art by a freelancer in a Dungeons & Dragons sourcebook. As a result, Wizards had publicly stated that they would refrain from using AI art entirely.
The company’s denial and subsequent admission garnered mixed reactions from fans and artists. Illustrator Jason Rainville expressed concerns about Wizards’ use of AI, but later retracted his criticism after the company vowed to make improvements. On the other hand, artist Dave Rapoza announced that he would no longer work with Wizards of the Coast due to their contradictory stance on AI art.
In response to the backlash, Wizards of the Coast clarified that the background of the image was sourced from a third-party vendor, who may have unintentionally incorporated AI components. The company admitted that they need to update their processes to support human creativity and ensure transparency when working with vendors, particularly for marketing images used on social media.
This incident highlights the challenge faced by companies like Wizards of the Coast when relying on third-party artists or vendors who may use AI tools without disclosure. As a business that heavily relies on selling art through Magic cards and tabletop sourcebooks, ensuring high-quality human-made art is crucial to maintaining the value of their products and preserving their relationship with illustrators.
Wizards of the Coast’s decision to retract the AI-generated art and commit to better practices in the future is a step in the right direction. The prevalence of low-quality AI art in commercial use is a growing concern, and distinguishing between real and AI-generated art is becoming increasingly difficult. This phenomenon is reminiscent of the media literacy skills required to navigate the abundance of misinformation on the internet.
As the use of AI in art continues to evolve, other companies have also faced accusations of AI-generated content. The year has only just begun, but we can expect to see more instances of the “AI revolution” impacting various industries throughout the coming months.
The source of the article is from the blog mgz.com.tw