Microsoft Faces Backlash for Using AI-Generated Art in Indie Game Promotion

Critics argue the tech giant should have hired an artist instead of using AI, raising concerns about the future of jobs in the gaming industry.

Microsoft's ID@Xbox Twitter account posted an AI-generated image to promote indie games, sparking backlash from gamers, developers, and artists who criticized the company for not hiring an actual artist.
The image, which featured children playing in a winter wonderland, had noticeable irregularities often associated with AI-generated art, such as odd facial expressions and strange control mechanisms on the children's sleds.
Following the criticism, Microsoft deleted the post without acknowledging the backlash or issuing a public statement.
Microsoft has been investing in AI and has previously announced plans to use AI-based solutions for game development, which has raised concerns about potential job cuts in the gaming industry.
Other major technology companies, including Amazon and Ubisoft, have also faced criticism for using AI-generated images in their promotions.