Latest news with #AIart
The Guardian
27-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Guardian
A real issue: video game developers are being accused of using AI – even when they aren't
In April, game developer Stamina Zero achieved what should have been a marketing slam-dunk: the launch trailer for the studio's game Little Droid was published on PlayStation's official YouTube channel. The response was a surprise for the developer. The game looks interesting, people wrote in the comments, but was 'ruined' by AI art. But the game's cover art, used as the thumbnail for the YouTube video, was in fact made by a real person, according to developer Lana Ro. 'We know the artist, we've seen her work, so such a negative reaction was unexpected for us, and at first we didn't know how to respond or how to feel,' Ro said. 'We were confused.' It's not wrong for people to be worried about AI use in video games – in fact, it's good to be sceptical, and ensure that the media you support aligns with your values. Common arguments against generative AI relate to environmental impact, art theft and just general quality, and video game developers are grappling with how generative AI will impact their jobs. But the unexpected problem is that the backlash against generative AI is now hurting even those who don't use it. 'I would rather people be overly cautious than not,' veteran game developer and Chessplus digital director Josh Caratelli said. 'But being collateral damage does suck.' Caratelli and his game Chessplus were caught up in a similar situation when he posted some art to Reddit – sharing explicitly that it was commissioned and not made with AI. Even then, Caratelli said he's received several comments and direct messages accusing him of lying about it, or suggesting he'd been duped. 'It's very clearly hand drawn,' he said. 'It was a fair whack of money to spend for an indie team on a piece of art. We thought it was worth it.' It's becoming increasingly common for people to call out instances where a game seems to have used AI in a way that replaces human work. (Epic Games was singled out recently for its AI Darth Vader.) But sometimes, that anger is misdirected at people and companies that are simply believed to be using AI. This is what happened when a Magic: The Gathering artist was accused of using AI, forcing Wizards of the Coast to put out a statement on the false accusations. Even Nintendo was accused, in May, of using AI-generated images for in-game billboards in Mario Kart World. Nintendo put out a statement to deny the claims. Bigger companies such as Wizards of the Coast and Nintendo may be able to weather false accusations, but indie studios with less influence may have a harder time. Little Droid, released in April, stars a little robot navigating a lush pixel-art world. Its cover, on the other hand, renders the droid in a totally different style – with the smooth, glossy finish that people have come to expect from AI art generation tools. People in the YouTube comments pointed to specific details to 'prove' the art is AI-generated: the robot itself is asymmetrical, because AI has issues with symmetry; the glow or lighting look off; some naysayers simply argued that real people don't draw like that. Stamina Zero, in the comments, continued to hold its ground – that no AI was used in development of the game or its art. Then the studio posted a video it said proves it, showing several steps in the art's process. The video showed early art concepts, navigating different layers in Adobe Photoshop as a way to demonstrate how the art came together. 'We contacted the artist and asked her for all the available intermediate sketches and the source PSD with all the layers,' Ro said. 'Based on all the available files, we put together a video as quickly as possible and posted it … It was a damage control move – a way to calm things down and make the discussion more productive. We had nothing to hide and were ready to be transparent.' Some people relented, accepting the video as proof that AI was not used. Others were unconvinced. There's no actual drawing in the video, which would be impossible to share unless the artist was recording their entire process. That is something some artists do already – but it creates additional work for them. And, as Stamina Zero found out, there will always be people who still don't believe. 'To be honest, I don't have a clear strategy for how we will proceed in the future,' Ro said. 'There was advice on Reddit not to make art similar to the results of AI work, as this triggers people. And this tip could work. But AI learns from the work of artists and, in the future, it is quite possible that it will be able to replicate any style.' Caratelli shares the community's ethical concerns about AI plagiarism, environmental impact and human creativity. But he was dispirited by the accusations against Chessplus. 'It's really hard for AI to make things with meaning. It's a thousand little intricacies that make a game great … [That] work isn't being valued,' he said. Ro agreed: 'It's completely unfair that so many people who have honed their craft for years are facing this and being wrongfully accused.' Both of these games are examples of how generative AI has poisoned the creative well, even for creators who aren't using it. We can never be totally sure, now, whether we're looking at something that a human made or not, as even proof can theoretically be fabricated. For creatives and players, it will have to come down to a relationship of trust.
The Guardian
26-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Guardian
A real issue: video game developers are being accused of using AI – even when they aren't
In April, game developer Stamina Zero achieved what should have been a marketing slam-dunk: the launch trailer for the studio's game Little Droid was published on PlayStation's official YouTube channel. The response was a surprise for the developer. The game looks interesting, people wrote in the comments, but was 'ruined' by AI art. But the game's cover art, used as the thumbnail for the YouTube video, was in fact made by a real person, according to developer Lana Ro. 'We know the artist, we've seen her work, so such a negative reaction was unexpected for us, and at first we didn't know how to respond or how to feel,' Ro said. 'We were confused.' It's not wrong for people to be worried about AI use in video games – in fact, it's good to be sceptical, and ensure that the media you support aligns with your values. Common arguments against generative AI relate to environmental impact, art theft and just general quality, and video game developers are grappling with how generative AI will impact their jobs. But the unexpected problem is that the backlash against generative AI is now hurting even those who don't use it. 'I would rather people be overly cautious than not,' veteran game developer and Chessplus digital director Josh Caratelli said. 'But being collateral damage does suck.' Caratelli and his game Chessplus were caught up in a similar situation when he posted some art to Reddit – sharing explicitly that it was commissioned and not made with AI. Even then, Caratelli said he's received several comments and direct messages accusing him of lying about it, or suggesting he'd been duped. 'It's very clearly hand drawn,' he said. 'It was a fair whack of money to spend for an indie team on a piece of art. We thought it was worth it.' It's becoming increasingly common for people to call out instances where a game seems to have used AI in a way that replaces human work. (Epic Games was singled out recently for its AI Darth Vader.) But sometimes, that anger is misdirected at people and companies that are simply believed to be using AI. This is what happened when a Magic: The Gathering artist was accused of using AI, forcing Wizards of the Coast to put out a statement on the false accusations. Even Nintendo was accused, in May, of using AI-generated images for in-game billboards in Mario Kart World. Nintendo put out a statement to deny the claims. Bigger companies such as Wizards of the Coast and Nintendo may be able to weather false accusations, but indie studios with less influence may have a harder time. Little Droid, released in April, stars a little robot navigating a lush pixel-art world. Its cover, on the other hand, renders the droid in a totally different style – with the smooth, glossy finish that people have come to expect from AI art generation tools. People in the YouTube comments pointed to specific details to 'prove' the art is AI-generated: the robot itself is asymmetrical, because AI has issues with symmetry; the glow or lighting look off; some naysayers simply argued that real people don't draw like that. Stamina Zero, in the comments, continued to hold its ground – that no AI was used in development of the game or its art. Then the studio posted a video it said proves it, showing several steps in the art's process. The video showed early art concepts, navigating different layers in Adobe Photoshop as a way to demonstrate how the art came together. 'We contacted the artist and asked her for all the available intermediate sketches and the source PSD with all the layers,' Ro said. 'Based on all the available files, we put together a video as quickly as possible and posted it … It was a damage control move – a way to calm things down and make the discussion more productive. We had nothing to hide and were ready to be transparent.' Some people relented, accepting the video as proof that AI was not used. Others were unconvinced. There's no actual drawing in the video, which would be impossible to share unless the artist was recording their entire process. That is something some artists do already – but it creates additional work for them. And, as Stamina Zero found out, there will always be people who still don't believe. 'To be honest, I don't have a clear strategy for how we will proceed in the future,' Ro said. 'There was advice on Reddit not to make art similar to the results of AI work, as this triggers people. And this tip could work. But AI learns from the work of artists and, in the future, it is quite possible that it will be able to replicate any style.' Caratelli shares the community's ethical concerns about AI plagiarism, environmental impact and human creativity. But he was dispirited by the accusations against Chessplus. 'It's really hard for AI to make things with meaning. It's a thousand little intricacies that make a game great … [That] work isn't being valued,' he said. Ro agreed: 'It's completely unfair that so many people who have honed their craft for years are facing this and being wrongfully accused.' Both of these games are examples of how generative AI has poisoned the creative well, even for creators who aren't using it. We can never be totally sure, now, whether we're looking at something that a human made or not, as even proof can theoretically be fabricated. For creatives and players, it will have to come down to a relationship of trust.
Geeky Gadgets
19-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Geeky Gadgets
Google Whisk: The Secret Weapon for Stunning Visuals in Seconds
Have you ever wished for a tool that could transform your creative ideas into stunning visuals with just a few clicks? Enter Google Whisk, an innovative AI-powered platform that's redefining the way we approach image creation and editing. Whether you're a seasoned designer, a casual hobbyist, or someone who's never touched a design tool before, Google Whisk promises to make the process intuitive, inspiring, and—most importantly—fun. With its ability to seamlessly merge images, apply unique styles, and even add basic animations, this tool is like having a virtual art assistant at your fingertips. But is it as simple and powerful as it sounds? That's exactly what this how-to will explore. In this guide, the AI GRID, show you the ins and outs of Google Whisk, from its innovative image merging capabilities to its treasure trove of customizable styles. You'll also learn how to refine prompts for precision, use the 'dice' feature for fresh ideas, and even collaborate with others using shared 'recipes.' But that's just scratching the surface—Google Whisk isn't just about creating visuals; it's about unlocking your creative potential in ways you never imagined. So, whether you're looking to design a professional-grade project or simply experiment with AI-driven artistry, this guide will help you navigate the possibilities. What could your next masterpiece look like? Let's find out. Google Whisk Overview Key Features: Image Merging and Style Application One of the standout capabilities of Google Whisk is its ability to seamlessly merge multiple images into a unified composition. By uploading individual visuals, the AI intelligently combines them, making it ideal for creating collages, blending elements from different sources, or experimenting with layered designs. This feature is particularly beneficial for projects that require a harmonious integration of diverse visual elements. To further enhance creativity, Whisk provides a wide array of style options. These include anime-inspired aesthetics, vintage effects, and paper-cut designs, among others. If you're unsure where to begin, the 'dice' feature can generate random style suggestions, sparking fresh ideas for your projects. The AI ensures that the selected style complements the merged images, resulting in visually balanced and appealing outputs. Advanced Customization Tools Google Whisk offers robust customization tools that give you greater control over your creative process. You can generate entirely new scenes using AI or upload custom backgrounds to personalize your designs. This flexibility allows you to tailor your creations to specific themes or purposes, making sure they align with your vision. Another key feature is the ability to adjust styles without altering the core subject or scene. This ensures that your original concept remains intact while experimenting with different visual effects. Additionally, Whisk supports aspect ratio adjustments, allowing you to optimize your visuals for various formats such as landscape, portrait, or square. This is particularly useful for creating content tailored for social media platforms, presentations, or personal projects. How to use Google Whisk for Stunning Visuals Watch this video on YouTube. Enhance your knowledge on AI image generators editing by exploring a selection of articles and guides on the subject. Refining Prompts and Enhancing Subject Clarity For users seeking precision and detail, Google Whisk allows you to refine prompts to guide the AI effectively. By crafting descriptive instructions, you can direct the AI to focus on specific elements, such as the texture of a fabric, the intricate details of a car model, or the lighting in a scene. This level of control is invaluable for projects that demand high accuracy or intricate designs. To achieve the best results, it's recommended to place subjects against plain white backgrounds. This minimizes distractions and helps the AI interpret and render the subject more effectively. By following this practice, you can significantly improve the clarity and quality of your outputs, making sure that the final result aligns with your expectations. Exploring Animation and Collaborative Features In addition to static image creation, Google Whisk includes basic animation capabilities. You can add simple cinematic effects, such as camera movements or transitions, to make your visuals more dynamic. While these animations are relatively simple, they provide an engaging way to present your creations, adding an extra layer of depth to your projects. Collaboration is another area where Google Whisk excels. The platform allows you to create and share 'recipes,' which are preset combinations of subjects, scenes, and styles. These recipes enable others to replicate your creative process or build upon your ideas, fostering a collaborative and innovative environment. This feature is particularly useful for group projects or social media trends, where consistency and shared inspiration are critical. Limitations and Best Practices While Google Whisk offers a range of powerful features, it does have certain limitations. For instance, character rendering can be inconsistent, and the tool may struggle to directly merge uploaded images seamlessly. Additionally, the basic animation capabilities are constrained by the current AI version, limiting the complexity of motion or interactions between objects. To make the most of Google Whisk, consider the following best practices: Use detailed and descriptive prompts to guide the AI effectively and achieve precise results. Photograph or design subjects against simple, clear backgrounds to enhance clarity and minimize distractions. Experiment with different styles, scenes, and features to explore the full potential of the tool. Use the 'dice' feature for inspiration when you're unsure where to start. By keeping these tips in mind, you can overcome the tool's limitations and unlock its full creative potential. Google Whisk is a powerful resource for anyone looking to explore the possibilities of AI-driven image creation, offering tools that cater to a wide range of creative needs and preferences. Media Credit: TheAIGRID Filed Under: AI, Guides Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
The Verge
18-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Verge
How The Roottrees are Dead ditched AI and became a hit
Robin Ward was recovering from a broken arm when he fell in love with The Roottrees are Dead, a free browser game hosted on an indie games salesfront. He reached out to its creator, Jeremy Johnston, and told him, 'This should be a bigger deal than it is.' At the same time, Ward says, he 'knew why' it couldn't be. The browser version of The Roottrees are Dead used AI-generated art for its images, a central part of the puzzle game that tasks players with investigating dozens of people and filling out its complex family tree. At the time, Steam, the biggest platform for PC games, did not allow the use of generative AI in games released using the storefront. In addition, Ward and Johnston agreed that they felt it was 'unethical to sell artwork created in this way.' Johnston had originally released the game for free, despite spending 11 months building it up from what was originally a Global Game Jam project cobbled together in less than a week in 2023. In the jam's tight time constraints, and in a time before generative AI was quite so well known, he reached out to a friend who was 'super into' using Midjourney and asked if he'd be willing to generate images based on prompts he had come up with for his puzzles. The images were far from perfect. Both Johnston and Ward point out a warped, staring image of a young girl in the original version of the game (which is still available for free) — Ward calls it 'demonic.' Other portraits have the twisted hands that were a telltale giveaway of generative AI at the time. But despite expanding the game for almost a year, adding to the story and puzzle aspects, Johnston says he 'never really thought' to replace the art. Not being an artist himself, he was focused on the photographic quality of the existing artwork, and he knew he would never be able to afford to hire models and a cameraperson to recreate it. And although he was putting a lot of work into the expanded version, he wasn't expecting the reaction it would eventually get. 'I've released other things — not games, necessarily, but things that I spent a lot of time and energy on, and then they came out and no one cared,' he says. So although he spent a lot of time on Roottrees, he did not want to invest money he was never expecting to get back. When he did release the version of Roottrees, though, it was surprisingly popular. It spread on forums and Reddit, and it received some attention in the games press. He did not charge for it, on account of the AI artwork, although he did include a donation link and says he made around $2,000-$3,000 from more than 10,000 players. And one of those players was Ward. After reaching out to Johnston, they agreed that Ward would reprogram the game and hire an illustrator to replace the AI artwork and get it ready for a Steam release. The illustrator he brought on, Henning Ludvigsen, says he used the AI art as a kind of concept sketch. Ludvigsen then did his own research into the era and style the picture was supposed to evoke, eventually making almost 40 illustrations across nearly a year of work. 'I'm not a big fan of generative AI,' he says, saying his peers in the illustration industry have seen a reduction in work, particularly concept artists. '[Companies] kind of skip that step now [using AI], which I think is not great.' When it comes to finished products, though, he still sees generative AI as 'not doing that well in general' among players. Large video game companies like Take Two Interactive have noted that players tend to not only avoid games that use AI but also react negatively to them online and in ratings, calling it a potential avenue for 'loss of players, revenues…and reputation harm.' Johnston mentions the case of Cyan Worlds, the developer behind Myst, receiving backlash for using 'AI assisted content' like texture assets in its latest game. The Roottrees are Dead seemed to skirt these issues by being transparent about its use upfront, as well as releasing for free, Johnston says. Ward also points out that 'in this case, it's the case of 'there would be no game' versus 'there is a game.'' Johnston agrees that without the use of AI-generated artwork, the initial version would never have been released, meaning the eventual full version with Ludvigsen's work in it would also never have existed. Ludvigsen himself says he 'really enjoyed' replacing the illustrations, given he's 'not a big fan of' AI art generation in general. 'I think some people would say, 'Well, I would prefer that there is no game in this case,' and I think they're entitled to their opinion,' Ward says, citing the environmental concerns and the scrapping of artists' work for training corpuses as potential arguments for that approach. 'But I ended up playing something that I really loved,' he says. The game was released on Steam in January 2025. 'The vast majority of people are like, 'I'm very happy you got rid of the AI,'' Ward says. Although some have said they prefer the more photographic quality of the generated art, Ludvigsen's work is undeniably an upgrade, from the untwisted fingers to the increased consistency in design for characters who appear in multiple photographs, which makes some puzzles more understandable. The Roottrees are Dead is now a critical and commercial success, which would not have happened without both generative AI and a human artist. Both Ward and Johnston note that the game took an unusual route to its current state. But with the increasing prevalence of AI tools, it's possible more games will end up on the same path.
Geeky Gadgets
11-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Geeky Gadgets
25 Midjourney Secret Prompts to Create Stunning AI Images in 2025
What if you could transform your creative process with just a few tweaks? In 2025, AI-driven platforms like Midjourney are no longer just tools—they're creative partners, redefining how we approach art and design. But here's the catch: with so many features and possibilities, it's easy to feel overwhelmed or stuck in a creative rut. Whether you're crafting surreal dreamscapes, designing professional assets, or simply exploring the boundaries of your imagination, knowing how to unlock Midjourney's prompts full potential is the difference between ordinary results and jaw-dropping creations. Are you ready to take your AI artistry to the next level? Future Tech Pilot explains about refining your prompts to harnessing advanced workflows, during which you'll discover 25 actionable tips that cater to both beginners and seasoned creators. Learn how to use mood boards to maintain stylistic consistency, experiment with unconventional prompts for one-of-a-kind results, and troubleshoot common challenges with ease. Each tip is designed to help you work smarter, spark innovation, and push the boundaries of what's possible. By the end, you'll not only feel more confident navigating the platform but also inspired to create visuals that truly stand out. Let's explore what's possible when creativity meets precision. Midjourney Tips Overview Mastering Prompting Techniques Crafting precise and imaginative prompts is essential for generating high-quality images in Midjourney. The more descriptive and specific your prompts, the better the results. Here are some strategies to improve your prompting: Incorporate descriptive phrases like 'looking off into the distance' to create dynamic and natural compositions. like 'looking off into the distance' to create dynamic and natural compositions. Use terms such as 'paparazzi' for candid-style images, while excluding cameras for a polished, professional effect. for candid-style images, while excluding cameras for a polished, professional effect. Experiment with prompts like 'an armored [subject]' to generate intricate designs with depth and texture. Refining your prompts allows you to push creative boundaries, making sure that your outputs align with your artistic vision. Integrating Mood Boards and Styles Mood boards are powerful tools for maintaining consistency and exploring creative variations. Midjourney enables you to use mood board codes to anchor specific styles across projects, making sure cohesion in your work. Additionally, the 'Describe' feature allows you to generate prompts directly from existing images, making it easier to reverse-engineer styles and themes. By combining these tools with image prompts, you can streamline your workflow and produce visually striking results that reflect your intended aesthetic. 25 Midjourney 7 Tips to Unlock Your Creative Potential in 2025 Watch this video on YouTube. Browse through more resources below from our in-depth content covering more areas on Midjourney Tips. Using Image Editing Features Midjourney's editing tools provide flexibility for refining your images after generation. These features allow you to make precise adjustments and experiment with different compositions. Key functionalities include: Rotating images by hovering over the corners in the editor for accurate alignment. by hovering over the corners in the editor for accurate alignment. Adjusting the eraser size by right-clicking and dragging to suit your editing needs. by right-clicking and dragging to suit your editing needs. Using the 'remix' feature to explore different aspect ratios and compositions. These tools empower you to fine-tune your creations, making sure they meet your exact specifications and artistic goals. Personalization and Profile Optimization Personalization settings in Midjourney allow you to tailor image generation to your preferences. By building personalized profiles, you can influence the style and tone of your outputs. If you choose to switch to older versions of Midjourney, consider disabling personalization settings to maintain compatibility. Additionally, ranked profiles and mood board codes provide a structured approach to achieving consistent results, making your creative process more efficient and tailored to your unique style. Advanced Workflows for Enhanced Creativity Midjourney's advanced workflows unlock new possibilities for creativity. These techniques encourage experimentation and help you discover innovative approaches to image creation: Zoom into images by adjusting aspect ratios and scale sliders for detailed compositions. by adjusting aspect ratios and scale sliders for detailed compositions. Create seamless patterns using the tile parameter, previewing them directly within the platform. using the tile parameter, previewing them directly within the platform. Use specific prompts like 'blank shape made of blank' to generate intricate and imaginative designs. By exploring these workflows, you can expand your creative horizons and produce unique, high-quality images. Exploring Creative Prompt Ideas Creative prompts are a powerful way to push the boundaries of what Midjourney can achieve. Experimenting with unconventional ideas can lead to truly one-of-a-kind results. Consider trying these examples: 'A human face made of smaller humans' for surreal and thought-provoking visuals. for surreal and thought-provoking visuals. 'Aerodynamic [object]' for sleek, futuristic designs. for sleek, futuristic designs. 'Theophobia' for dramatic, thematic imagery with emotional depth. By thinking outside the box, you can unlock new creative possibilities and produce images that stand out. Troubleshooting and Optimization Even with advanced tools, challenges can arise during the creative process. To optimize your experience and address common issues, consider these tips: Filter and organize images by version to effectively track your creations and progress. by version to effectively track your creations and progress. Use search functions (Ctrl/Command + F) to quickly locate specific mood boards or prompts. (Ctrl/Command + F) to quickly locate specific mood boards or prompts. Avoid overusing the 'weird' parameter to maintain image quality and prevent distorted results. These troubleshooting strategies ensure a smoother workflow, helping you resolve issues efficiently and focus on your creative goals. Miscellaneous Tips for Maximum Efficiency Midjourney offers several lesser-known features that can enhance your productivity and creativity. These tips encourage you to explore the platform's full potential: Scroll through past creations quickly using the timeline navigation feature to revisit and refine your work. quickly using the timeline navigation feature to revisit and refine your work. Experiment with unconventional prompts , such as 'elderly people cage fighting championship,' for unexpected and entertaining results. , such as 'elderly people cage fighting championship,' for unexpected and entertaining results. Explore the impact of single words like 'aerodynamic' or 'theophobia' to uncover surprising and unique outcomes. By using these features, you can think outside the box and make the most of Midjourney's capabilities. Maximizing Your Midjourney Experience Midjourney's evolving features and tools provide endless opportunities for creativity and innovation. By mastering prompting techniques, integrating mood boards, using editing tools, and exploring advanced workflows, you can elevate your image generation process. Whether you're troubleshooting issues or experimenting with creative prompts, these 25 tips will help you navigate the platform with confidence, efficiency, and expertise. Media Credit: Future Tech Pilot Filed Under: AI, Guides Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
