Fortnite is using generative AI to assist in creating cosmetic skins, which it sells for up to £15, sparking widespread fan backlash. Epic Games recently published a YouTube video demonstrating its AI-assisted art concepting process, where hand-drawn sketches are rendered into 3D models using an in-house tool called Gen Media Bridge. The company claims this speeds up the design process, allowing artists to focus on refining details. However, fans have reacted negatively, pointing out that the AI often ignores prompts, such as adding unwanted elements like a skull on a character's pouch that must be manually removed. Critics argue this negates any time savings and question the need for AI when traditional methods have worked for years.
Epic's AI Stance and Fan Reactions
Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney has previously stated that AI will be involved in nearly all future production, and the company has incorporated AI artwork into Fortnite before. In April, Epic announced plans for AI-powered characters with unscripted dialogue. The latest video has drawn overwhelmingly negative comments, with fans accusing Epic of using AI as a cost-cutting measure after laying off 1,000 employees in March. Comments include: 'So how many creatives did you lay off before doing this bit of AI bro propaganda?' and 'No one wants AI dogs*** in the game. Hire actual artists and designers.' Despite Epic's assurance that 'creative control remains in the hands of the creator,' many remain unconvinced.
Pricing and Controversy
Fortnite is free to play, but cosmetic skins are purchased with V-Bucks. A high-end skin costs around 2,000 V-Bucks, equivalent to about £15 when buying a pack of 2,400 V-Bucks for £17.49. The use of AI in skin creation has intensified scrutiny on Epic's pricing and layoffs. Similar defenses have been used by other developers, like Crystal Dynamics for the upcoming Tomb Raider remake, stating AI-assisted assets are refined by humans. However, the Fortnite community remains skeptical, with many calling for Epic to prioritize human artists over AI tools.
