Hasbro unit bans A.I.-generated art due to negative response from D&D fans. Process to be revised.
Hasbro unit bans A.I.-generated art due to negative response from D&D fans. Process to be revised.
The Rise of AI in Art: D&D Beyond’s Encounter with AI-generated Artwork
In the realm of Dungeons & Dragons (D&D), creativity has always been at the core of character creation and world-building. From intricate illustrations of fantastical creatures to vivid landscapes, D&D art has enthralled fans for decades. However, a recent revelation that AI was used to create artwork for an upcoming book has stirred an unexpected controversy.
D&D Beyond, a subsidiary of Hasbro and the creator of online tools and companion content for the franchise, recently disclosed that one of its long-time illustrators had used AI to generate commissioned artwork. This news surprised both fans and D&D Beyond itself, leading to questions about the authenticity and human touch of the artwork. While AI-generated art has been gaining popularity in recent years, it seems that some D&D enthusiasts were not quite ready to embrace this new artistic frontier.
The artist in question, who had collaborated with D&D Beyond for nearly a decade, had unknowingly crossed a line by incorporating AI techniques into their creative process. In response to the controversy, D&D Beyond promptly addressed the situation on their X account (formerly Twitter), stating that the artist would no longer use AI for Wizards of the Coast, the subsidiary responsible for the D&D franchise. Moreover, they acknowledged the need for clarity in their guidelines, ensuring that artists refrain from utilizing AI in the creation of D&D artworks moving forward.
One of the reasons that the AI-generated artwork raised suspicion among fans was the presence of telltale glitches. Distorted limbs or other imperfections often give away the involvement of AI in the artistic process. However, it is worth noting that AI is a constantly evolving technology, and glitches in AI-generated art are becoming less prevalent as the algorithms improve.
Despite the controversy, Hasbro and Wizards of the Coast have not provided further comments regarding the situation. Hasbro acquired D&D Beyond for $146.3 million last year, solidifying its position in the ever-expanding market of interactive entertainment. The Rhode Island-based toy giant has been the proud owner of Wizards of the Coast for over two decades, giving it a firm foundation in the realm of tabletop gaming.
- Markets yield to U.S. curve
- A US soldier may have falsely reported a raid in Afghanistan to sec...
- Automakers criticize EPA plan for emissions limits, while environme...
The specific AI-generated art that sparked the controversy is intended for a forthcoming hardcover book titled “Bigby Presents: Glory of the Giants.” This book, filled with descriptions and lore of monstrous creatures, has generated substantial interest among D&D fans. Both the physical and digital versions of the package are available for pre-order on the D&D website, with an anticipated release date of August 15th. Priced at $59.95, the book is expected to offer D&D enthusiasts a tantalizing dive into the world of towering giants.
The use of AI tools in creative work has stirred copyright and labor concerns across various industries. Hollywood, for example, faced a strike due to the potential consequences of AI on the industry. Similarly, the music industry’s Recording Academy revised its Grammy Awards protocols to account for the impact of AI. Visual artists have also taken legal action against AI companies, claiming that their work was used without consent to build image-generators accessible to anyone. The integration of AI technologies into traditional art forms raises many questions, indicating that the need for clear guidelines and ethical boundaries remains prominent.
AI’s reach extends beyond the world of fantasy, with rival toy giant Mattel reportedly experimenting with AI-generated images in the creation of new Hot Wheels toy cars. The extent to which AI was used for this purpose is yet to be clarified. As companies continue to explore the possibilities offered by AI in creative work, its impact on the artistic process and the industry at large will continue to be a topic of discussion and debate.
The encounter between D&D Beyond and AI-generated art has shed light on the evolving dynamics between technology and creativity. While AI brings forth new possibilities and efficiencies, it also raises questions about the authenticity and human touch that fuels the artistic realm. As companies and artists navigate this uncharted territory, it becomes crucial to strike a balance between embracing technological advancements and preserving the essence of traditional artistic craftsmanship. In the realm of Dungeons & Dragons, this delicate equilibrium is vital to ensure that the magic of storytelling and imagination continues to thrive.
