GOG now using AI generated images on their store (www.gamingonlinux.com)

GOG, the digital game distribution platform, has sparked controversy by utilizing AI-generated images for promotional materials, including a recent banner for their New Year Sale. While the use of AI in creative fields is on the rise, many in the gaming community are expressing concern over the implications of replacing traditional artists with machine-generated content. The backlash was intensified by the discovery of aesthetic flaws in the generated images, such as a poorly rendered console that raised questions about quality and appropriateness for a PC-focused store. This move towards AI artwork comes alongside GOG's efforts to revitalize its brand, including the launch of the GOG Patrons program and plans to expand GOG Galaxy to Linux. However, the decision to employ AI tools as part of their marketing strategy may alienate both gamers and developers who value the artistry inherent in game promotion. As one GOG team member noted, the acceptance of AI in smaller aspects of creative work could lead to a wider trend of minimizing human involvement in art, potentially diluting the creative essence that players appreciate in their gaming experiences. This scenario highlights a critical tension in the AI/ML community regarding authenticity in creative industries as technology increasingly encroaches on traditional roles.