Apex Legens devs accused of using AI art for Final Fantasy crossover
Even though Apex Legends has always impressed the community with its incredible artwork and mind-blowing trailers that never fail to disappoint, it occasionally gets drawn into controversy. Still, its Stories from the Outlands series is so beloved, fans are desperate for an official animated series to be produced.
Unfortunately, the latest Final Fantasy Rebirth collaboration trailer has missed the mark after fans noticed what they believe is AI-generated artwork. The portraits of Wraith, Newcastle, Crypto, Wattson, and Horizon all appear slightly strange, leaving players convinced that artificial intelligence has been used.
This has led to massive backlash from the community, who argue the "lazy" practice needs to stop and Respawn should be utilising the talents of its artists instead.
Apex Legends fans slam devs for alleged use of AI artwork
The Apex Legends subreddit isn't with Respawn, and this time, it's due to the devs allegedly using AI artwork in the Final Fantasy trailer. While Respawn has neither confirmed nor denied the accusations so far, fans have already started picking apart the images and are convinced it's "pure AI jumble."
"Look at the wires or whatever on Wattson’s left hip, or the fact that her sleeve doesn’t completely wrap around her left arm," said one player, with another arguing "that Valk skin has a Cactuar (cactus creature) charm on her chest in this image, the Cactuar is completely destroyed - this isn't a filter or 3d cell shading, this is AI."
These images may have only played a small part in the trailer, but it's resulted in a landslide of backlash for the devs. Fans have made it clear that they have "lost so much respect for Respawn" and expect a "formal apology" as soon as possible.
Apex Legends community concerned EA may "replace artists with AI" in future
Click to enlargeThe main issue players have with this artwork is that they believe it's "lazy" and requires the "bare minimum" effort to create. For them, it's just an example of EA maximising profit, while cutting costs as much as possible.
Instead, the community wants Respawn to make use of real artists in every possible way, giving them the chance to express themselves and use their incredible talent.
Artificial intelligence in trailers is a sign in the eyes of the community of a darker future where EA "replace artists with AI," putting them out of a job.
This isn't something gamers want to see happen, and with so much anger stirring around this event, it'll be interesting to see if Respawn makes an announcement.
