Hooded Horse Is Pushing Back Against AI Art with Contracts That Ban It (kotaku.com)

Hooded Horse, an indie game publisher known for titles like Manor Lords and Terra Invicta, has implemented strict contracts prohibiting the use of generative AI art in its projects. CEO Tim Bender expressed frustration over the complications generated by AI art, which he described as "cancerous" for the industry. His stance reflects a commitment not only to ethical practices but also to maintaining the integrity of the artistic process within game development. Bender emphasized that allowing any AI-generated content, even as placeholders during development, poses risks of it slipping into final products, leading to potential backlash and ethical dilemmas. This move is significant as it contrasts sharply with trends seen in larger game companies embracing AI for efficiency and cost savings. As more developers experiment with AI tools, Hooded Horse stands out in prioritizing ethical concerns, particularly those surrounding originality and the potential for AI-generated content to plagiarize human artists' work. Bender's approach signals a critical conversation within the AI/ML community about the implications of generative AI in creative fields, advocating for a more thoughtful engagement with technology that respects the craftsmanship and rights of human creators.