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

Nintendo has firmly refuted claims that it utilized AI-generated images for billboards in the eagerly awaited Mario Kart World. Speculation arose following a Nintendo Treehouse livestream that offered a sneak peek at the upcoming game. Observant fans noted unusual images on in-game advertising boards, including a construction site, a bridge, and an unusually tall car, sparking discussions about the potential use of AI.

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

The use of generative AI has become a hot-button issue across creative industries, including video game development. Concerns extend beyond ethical and copyright issues, with labor unions worried about job displacement and performers advocating for greater protections against AI's encroachment.

Last September, Nintendo's iconic developer Shigeru Miyamoto emphasized that the company prefers to chart its own course with regard to AI. This stance contrasts with other industry leaders like EA CEO Andrew Wilson, who views AI as integral to their operations. Miyamoto's perspective was further detailed in an interview with The New York Times, where he explained, “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 added, "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 follow those made by Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa in July, who acknowledged the creative potential of generative AI but also highlighted its implications for intellectual property rights. Furukawa stated, "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."

The much-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2, for which Mario Kart World is a console exclusive, is set to launch on June 5. Pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2 opened on April 24, with the console priced at $449.99. For more details on pre-orders, check out IGN's Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order guide.