The Dungeons and Dragons (D&D) franchise announced that it will no longer be allowing its artists to use artificial intelligence technology to create artwork for the popular role-playing game. D&D’s AI warning comes on the heels of a recent controversy surrounding an ax-wielding giant character that was dubbed too weird by eagle-eyed fans.Â
The use of AI tools in the creative field has raised concerns in various industries, and D&D is now taking a stand against this trend.
D&D’s Stance on AI Artwork: Controversy For AI ArtÂ
D&D Beyond, falling under the umbrella of Hasbro-owned Wizards of the Coast, discovered that one of its long-time illustrators (nearly having being associated with D&D for a decade), had used AI to create commissioned artwork for an upcoming book.Â
This revelation of AI art in D&D sparked a wave of skepticism among fans, who took to social media to question the authenticity of D&D’s fantasy art. The glitches in the appearance of the character such as distorted limbs, caught the attention of observant D&D gamers. Such telltale signs are ubiquitous in AI art.
The cover art of Dungeons & Dragons: Dark Alliance. (Image Courtesy – Dungeons & Dragons)
After being subjected to the accusations of the usage of AI art, the company immediately addressed the controversy, issuing a warning against D&D illustrators’ AI use.Â
In a statement, D&D clarified that the artist in question will no longer be affiliated with AI for Wizards’ work moving forward in the next projects. The franchise is also revising its process and updating its artist guidelines to explicitly prohibit the use of AI art generation in the creation of D&D artwork, laying down AI restrictions in its fantasy art.
D&D’s decision to halt the use of AI-generated artwork aligns with the concerns expressed by artists and fans alike. By clarifying its rules and guidelines, D&D aims to maintain the integrity and authenticity of its fantasy world. While AI technology offers exciting possibilities, it is clear that D&D values the unique creative vision and craftsmanship of its artists.Â
Interestingly, D&D’s decision stands in contrast to that of its rival, Mattel. The toy company has utilized AI-generated images to assist with the development of new Hot Wheels toy cars. However, it seemed ambiguous on whether this was merely an experimental venture or a long-term strategy. The divergence in approach between these two industry giants highlights the ongoing debate surrounding the role of AI in creative ventures.
The Role of AI in Creative Industries
The use of AI tools in creative industries has become increasingly prevalent in recent years. However, this has not been without controversy. The concerns raised range from copyright and labor issues to questions about the authenticity and originality of the artwork produced. Industries such as Hollywood and the music industry have grappled with the impact of AI on their respective fields.
The Hollywood WGA strike is fueled in part by concerns surrounding the use of AI-generated content in scripts. Visual artists have even taken legal action against AI companies for using their work without consent to create image generators accessible to anyone.
As AI technology continues to push the boundaries of what is possible, Dungeons and Dragons has taken a firm stance against the use of AI-generated artwork. D&D’s AI warning serves as a reminder that, despite the allure of AI, the franchise seeks to uphold the traditional approach to art creation in the gameverse of Dungeons and Dragons.
As fans eagerly await the release of “Bigby Presents: Glory of the Giants,” D&D’s cautionary move paves the way for a renewed appreciation of artistry and human ingenuity in the fantasy genre.