Nintendo has firmly denied allegations that it utilized AI-generated images to design billboards within the upcoming game Mario Kart World. Speculation arose following a Nintendo Treehouse livestream that provided an early glimpse into the game, where some fans noticed unusual in-game advertisements featuring a construction site, a bridge, and an unusually tall car.

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

While it's common for pre-release games to include placeholder graphics, Nintendo was quick to clarify that no AI-generated images were used in the development of Mario Kart World. In a statement to Eurogamer, the company stated, "AI-generated images were not used in the development of Mario Kart World."

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

The debate around generative AI is heating up across creative industries, including video game development. Beyond ethical and copyright concerns, labor unions are worried about job displacement, and performers in the video game sector are advocating for more safeguards against AI usage.

In September of the previous year, Nintendo's legendary developer Shigeru Miyamoto emphasized the company's intention to chart a unique course in the industry, particularly regarding AI. This stance contrasts with other industry leaders like EA CEO Andrew Wilson, who views AI as central to their business model, as explored in detail by IGN. Miyamoto expressed in an interview with The New York Times that Nintendo aims to maintain its distinctiveness by exploring different paths.

"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 explained. He further noted, "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."

These comments echo earlier statements by Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa in July, who acknowledged the creative potential of generative AI but also highlighted the complexities around intellectual property rights. Furukawa affirmed Nintendo's commitment to leveraging its decades of experience to deliver unique gaming experiences that technology alone cannot replicate.

The much-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2, for which Mario Kart World is a console exclusive, is slated for release on June 5. Pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2 opened on April 24, with the console priced at $449.99. The demand was predictably high, as detailed in IGN's Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order guide.

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