Imagine pouring hours, days, even years into crafting a game, only to see its heart and soul threatened by something…artificial. That’s the reality facing indie developers today, and one publisher is drawing a firm line in the sand.
As an SEO content strategist who has spent years helping articles reach the front page of Google, I understand the importance of authentic content. It’s why I’m so interested in this story: one company isn’t just talking about the impact of AI, but actively doing something about it.
Hooded Horse Bans AI: Why This Indie Publisher Is Taking a Stand
Hooded Horse, a publisher known for championing indie games, has officially banned the use of AI in the games they publish, calling it “cancerous.” This is a bold move, especially considering the increasing prevalence of AI in various industries.
Known for supporting a huge number of indie games – some incredibly popular and successful, like Manor Lords and Against the Storm – Hooded Horse is using its position to push back against what it sees as a harmful trend. It’s like a local bookstore refusing to sell e-books, standing up for the tangible and human element of creation.
Why did Hooded Horse decide to ban AI in its published games?
According to Hooded Horse CEO Tim Bender, AI only makes things more difficult. He expressed strong feelings against generative AI art, stating that their publishing contracts now include a “no AI assets” clause. It’s a firm stance driven by a desire to protect the integrity of the creative process.
The “No AI Assets” Clause: How Hooded Horse Protects Indie Games
Hooded Horse isn’t just paying lip service to the idea of banning AI; they’ve put it in writing. The “no AI assets” clause in their publishing contracts sends a clear message: human creativity comes first. They communicate to potential partners that no AI should be used, even for placeholders, to avoid it sneaking into the final product. I once saw a similar clause prevent a marketing team from using obviously AI-generated social media content, so I know these things can work in practice.
Bender said they “got to the point” where they had to explicitly forbid AI, because they were constantly watching for it and trying to prevent it from slipping in. He sees it as “cancerous” and something that needs to be actively fought against.
Ethical Stance vs. PR Move: The Real Reason Behind the AI Ban
Bender emphasizes that this decision isn’t about public relations; it’s an ethical stance. He feels it would be a “betrayal” to his marketing team, who pour their hearts into creating promotional art, to force them to work with AI-generated content. It’s a matter of principle, prioritizing human effort and originality over potentially cheaper, AI-generated alternatives.
How difficult is it to actually enforce a ban on AI-generated content in games?
Enforcing these rules is difficult, especially as AI technology becomes more sophisticated. Some developers might try to use AI and mask it, but it’s vital to have rules that openly oppose the corporate push toward artificial content built on the work of countless humans, just so someone can profit even more.
The Future of Indie Games: Can Human Creativity Prevail?
The stand taken by Hooded Horse raises important questions about the future of indie games and the role of AI. Will other publishers follow suit? Will consumers demand more transparency about the use of AI in the games they play?
What kind of impact could AI have on the quality and originality of indie games?
If AI does everything, it’s just a machine regurgitating almost-stolen art into something no one enjoys, exclusively for people who never cared about art to begin with. At least before, CEOs had to produce something of value, something original and striking enough for people to want to experience, so they could make money.
More on Hooded Horse
Hooded Horse’s decision to ban AI is a significant step in the ongoing debate about the role of technology in creative industries. It’s a reminder that human creativity still matters and that some are willing to fight for it.
Want to dive deeper into the impact of AI on the gaming world? What are your thoughts on AI-generated art and its place in the industry, and do you think more publishers will adopt similar policies to Hooded Horse?