Nintendo has denied allegations that it employed AI-generated imagery for billboards in Mario Kart World.
Speculation arose when a Nintendo Treehouse livestream recently showcased the upcoming racer. Observant fans noticed several in-game advertisements appeared unusual, particularly images of a construction site, a bridge, and an abnormally tall vehicle that drew suspicion.
While pre-release versions often contain temporary assets, Nintendo firmly stated that no AI was used in development. The company told Eurogamer: "AI-generated images were not utilized during the creation of Mario Kart World."
Generative AI has become a contentious topic across creative fields, particularly in game development. Beyond ethical and copyright concerns, labor organizations worry about job displacement, while voice actors seek stronger protections against AI usage.
Nintendo legend Shigeru Miyamoto stated last September that the company prefers charting its own course regarding AI, contrary to industry trends. While Electronic Arts views AI as "the very core of our business" (as IGN previously analyzed), Miyamoto emphasized Nintendo's distinctive approach.
In a New York Times interview, Miyamoto explained: "It might appear we're intentionally going against the grain, but we're actually identifying what makes Nintendo unique. When AI became a dominant topic, everyone moved in that direction - that's precisely when Nintendo chooses a different path."
Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa previously commented in July that while generative AI offers creative potential, it "raises intellectual property concerns."
"We possess decades of expertise in crafting exceptional gaming experiences," Furukawa added. "While we're open to technological advancements, we're committed to delivering uniquely Nintendo experiences that can't be replicated through technology alone."
The eagerly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2, featuring Mario Kart World as a console exclusive, launches June 5. Preorders began April 24 at $449.99 (proceeding as expected with high demand). For details, consult IGN's Nintendo Switch 2 preorder guide.
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