Jagex Faces Backlash Over AI-Generated Content in RuneScape Trailer
- Jagex’s RuneFest revealed a trailer for RuneScape 3’s Dragon Slayer 2 quest that faced criticism due to AI-generated elements.
- Players noted oddities such as a six-fingered hand, raising concerns about the developer’s stance on generative AI.
- Jagex has taken down the trailer and is reevaluating their processes regarding AI use in partnerships.
Jagex, the company behind RuneScape, recently held its annual convention, RuneFest, which showcases community events and game announcements. However, a trailer for RuneScape 3’s upcoming Dragon Slayer 2 quest has overshadowed the festivities due to unexpected generative AI use.
The cinematic trailer presented a new adventure in a sketched aesthetic but was quickly criticized for containing unusual details, including a six-fingered hand and fantasy Air Jordans.
Player backlash was swift, particularly as Jagex had recently reiterated its opposition to generative AI following criticism of a third-party apparel collaboration that used AI in design. Jagex Sween addressed the situation on Reddit, stating, “We’re as angry as you are about this. We wouldn’t have approved the use of AI in any designs…” He emphasized the importance of human creativity in their games.
In response to the trailer’s reception, Jagex issued a statement acknowledging the concerns and confirmed the trailer’s removal for an urgent investigation. “This trailer was produced by a trusted external partner who had explicitly confirmed that GenAI would not be used,” the statement read. “But, among other things, there’s a sixth finger and, well, that’s pretty hard to explain away. For that, we apologise.”
Continuing, Jagex clarified, “Our position is clear: we don’t use GenAI to create our games, artwork or creative assets, and will not knowingly allow it to be used on our behalf.” The company has pledged to improve its review processes following these incidents and to engage creators from the community for future projects, particularly for Dragon Slayer II.
While this controversy casts a shadow over the developer’s credibility, it may also lead to positive changes in their collaborations and quality assurance practices. Additionally, other announcements at RuneFest generated enthusiasm, including a Reignited version of RuneScape featuring enhanced HD graphics, along with a new RuneScape MMO currently in development.
News Courtesy of Eurogamer
