Controversy Surrounds The Alters over AI Use
Players have expressed their dissatisfaction with The Alters developer, 11 Bit Studios, after discovering AI-generated prompts in both subtitles and flavor text in the game, suggesting the routine use of large language models (LLMs) without proper disclosure.
Steam’s Disclosure Requirement
Since January 2024, Valve has mandated that games employing pre- or live-generated AI disclose this use as part of the Steam Distribution Agreement. This requirement extends to art, code, sound, and more produced with AI tools. As of now, The Alters has not provided any such disclosure.
Examples of AI Use in The Alters
In one instance, a game screen intended to evoke a sci-fi atmosphere begins with the line: “Sure, here’s a revised version focusing purely on scientific and astronomical data.” Another player reported that, while playing with subtitles in Brazilian Portuguese, the text often appeared nonsensical, corroborated by a screenshot of subtitles that read: “Sure! The text translated to Brazilian Portuguese is: Every conversation two people can have, right? So we-.”
Player Reactions and Backlash
One player voiced concern on Steam, stating, “The game is using AI-generated content without a proper Steam Page disclaimer! This is absolutely unacceptable. 11 Bit Studios has been caught using AI in The Alters without ANY disclaimer on the Steam page.” Others echoed this sentiment, demanding transparency about AI usage in content creation.
Diverse Opinions Among Players
Contrasting opinions emerged, with one player arguing that the AI-generated text was minor and not a significant issue. Some players did point out translation errors in the Portuguese version. Game localization specialist Lucile Danilov criticized the use of AI prompts, highlighting the importance of accurate translations in a narrative-driven game.
Responses from Localisation Experts
Handong Ryu, responsible for the Korean translation, confirmed similar issues in the Korean version, suggesting that parts of the game had been inadequately edited after using AI. This has drawn criticism from the Korean gaming community, which has reacted negatively to the situation, particularly since the concerned segments were out of Ryu’s control.
Current Status and Future Implications
As of now, 11 Bit Studios has yet to address these allegations or respond to player criticisms. Earlier this week, another game, Jurassic Park Evolution 3, decided to remove AI-generated elements following initial player feedback. This situation raises questions about the use of AI in game development and the importance of transparency with consumers.
