Nintendo has denied allegations that it used AI-generated visuals for billboards in Mario Kart World.
Speculation began circulating after a Nintendo Treehouse livestream previewed the upcoming racing game. Observant fans noted unusual elements in some in-game advertisements, including odd-looking construction site imagery, a bridge, and an oddly proportioned vehicle.
While pre-release builds often include temporary assets, Nintendo explicitly denied using AI-generated content. In a statement to Eurogamer, the company clarified: "No AI-generated images were used during the development of Mario Kart World."
The debate over generative AI continues to intensify across creative fields, including game development. Beyond copyright concerns, industry unions have warned about potential job displacement, while voice actors have sought safeguards against AI applications.
During a September interview, Nintendo's legendary designer Shigeru Miyamoto emphasized the company's distinctive approach to technological trends: "When industry movements like AI adoption gain momentum, we consciously chart our own course to maintain Nintendo's unique identity."
Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa previously acknowledged AI's creative potential while cautioning about intellectual property considerations: "Our decades of gameplay expertise allow us to deliver experiences that technology alone cannot replicate."
The highly anticipated launch of Mario Kart World arrives alongside the Nintendo Switch 2 on June 5. Pre-orders for the $449.99 console began April 24 to overwhelming demand. For pre-order details, consult IGN's official Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order guide.
