Nintendo Insists AI-Generated Images Were Not Used in the Development of Mario Kart World After In-Game Billboards Sparked Speculation

Nintendo has firmly denied allegations that it utilized AI-generated images to design billboards within the eagerly awaited game, Mario Kart World. Speculation arose following a Nintendo Treehouse livestream that offered fans a closer look at the upcoming title. Observant viewers noticed oddities in some in-game advertisements, such as images of a construction site, a bridge, and an unusually tall car, which sparked discussions about potential AI involvement.

While it's common for pre-release games to feature temporary graphics that may not make it into the final version, 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 debate over generative AI is currently a hot topic across creative industries, including video game development. Beyond the ethical and copyright concerns, labor unions are wary of AI's potential to displace jobs, and video game performers are advocating for stronger protections against its use.

Last September, Nintendo's iconic developer Shigeru Miyamoto voiced the company's unique approach to AI, contrasting with industry leaders like EA's CEO Andrew Wilson, who described AI as "the very core of our business" — a statement later dissected by IGN. Miyamoto emphasized Nintendo's preference for a different path during an interview with The New York Times, stating, "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."

He further elaborated, "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."

Miyamoto's comments align with those made by Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa in July, who acknowledged the potential of generative AI in creative endeavors but highlighted the challenges it poses to intellectual property rights. Furukawa emphasized Nintendo's commitment to leveraging technology while maintaining the unique value it offers players: "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."

As anticipation builds for the Nintendo Switch 2, set to launch on June 5, and for which Mario Kart World is a console exclusive, pre-orders for the new console opened on April 24 at a steady price of $449.99. The response has been as enthusiastic as expected. For those interested, check out IGN's Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order guide for more details.