Valve defends its requirement for AI disclosures on Steam, amidst critiques from Epic Games. The policy mandates that games using generative AI in development declare it on their store pages.
Debate over AI Labels
The controversy began when Tim Sweeney, CEO of Epic Games, argued that AI disclosures like those by Valve should be removed. He contends that AI use in game development will eventually become universal and publicly accepted.
In contrast, Ayi Sanchez, a Valve artist known for contributions to Counter-Strike 2, defended the labels. He suggests they primarily concern creators of lower-quality products, asserting that consumers deserve transparency about AI usage in games.
Consumer Information and Ethics
Sanchez compares AI disclosures to food ingredient lists, emphasizing that consumers seek product transparency. While Matt Workman, on X (formerly Twitter), countered by saying AI's impact differs from tangible products, Sanchez maintains that understanding production processes matters ethically.
<- Arc Raiders and Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 recently disclosed AI use.
- AI disclosure policy is part of a broader conversation about ethics in production.
According to Sanchez, labeling is crucial for informed purchasing decisions, much like knowing if a product was ethically sourced.
Sanchez's Perspective
While not speaking for all of Valve, Ayi Sanchez highlights concerns about potential cultural laundering and IP infringement due to AI. His viewpoint encourages ongoing discourse on how AI reshapes creative industries and what constitutes authentic creation.
