Nintendo Denies AI Use in Mario Kart World Development Amid Billboard Speculation

Nintendo has firmly denied allegations that it utilized AI-generated images for creating billboards in the much-anticipated Mario Kart World. Speculation arose following a Nintendo Treehouse livestream that offered a detailed look at the game. Observant fans noticed that certain in-game advertisements, featuring a construction site, a bridge, and an unusually tall car, appeared odd, sparking rumors about the use of AI.

Does this look like AI to you? Image credit: Nintendo.

While it's common for pre-release games to include temporary graphics, Nintendo was quick to clarify in a statement to Eurogamer: "AI-generated images were not used in the development of Mario Kart World."

This odd-looking car sparked speculation. Image credit: Nintendo.

The topic of generative AI has become a focal point in the creative industries, particularly in video game development, where it raises concerns about ethics, copyright, and job displacement. Labor unions and game performers have voiced their apprehensions about AI's potential impact on employment and have pushed for stronger protections.

In September of last year, Nintendo's renowned developer Shigeru Miyamoto expressed the company's intention to take a unique approach to AI, diverging from industry trends. In contrast to EA CEO Andrew Wilson, who described AI as central to their business model (as explored in detail by IGN), Miyamoto emphasized Nintendo's distinct perspective during an interview with The New York Times.

"It might seem like we are just going the opposite direction for the sake of going in the opposite direction, but it really is trying to find what makes Nintendo special," Miyamoto stated. He further elaborated, "There is a lot of talk about A.I., for example. When that happens, everyone starts to go in the same direction, but that is where Nintendo would rather go in a different direction."

Miyamoto's stance aligns with comments made by Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa in July, who acknowledged the potential of generative AI in creative processes but highlighted concerns over intellectual property rights. Furukawa affirmed, "We have decades of know-how in creating the best gaming experiences for our players. While we are open to utilizing technological developments, we will work to continue delivering value that is unique to Nintendo and cannot be created by technology alone."

As excitement builds for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, set to launch on June 5, fans can look forward to Mario Kart World as a console exclusive. Pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2, priced at $449.99, opened on April 24 and were met with high demand. For those interested, IGN provides a comprehensive Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order guide.