Tim Sweeney, the CEO of Epic Games, has hinted that developers can utilize generative artificial intelligence (AI) in making games on the Epic Games Store.
This announcement comes in response to an incident on Steam, where Valve allegedly removed a project from its storefront after the developer introduced an optional ChatGPT mod for playtesters.
Shifting Away from Anti-AI Policies
Epic Games boss Tim Sweeney thinks that not all generative AI is "terrible" or infringing.
Sweeney's statement follows criticism from a Steam user who accused Valve of implementing an "idiotic" anti-AI policy. According to Game Developer, Valve cited "legal uncertainty" surrounding the training of generative AI models as the reason for its cautious approach to approving titles using such technology.
Put it on the Epic Games Store. We don’t ban games for using new technologies.
— Tim Sweeney (@TimSweeneyEpic) September 2, 2023
However, Sweeney expressed a different perspective and invited developers facing such issues on Steam to consider bringing their titles to the Epic Games Store.
Valve's concerns regarding generative AI stem from the vast amount of data these models are trained on, often sourced from the internet. This reliance on external data can lead to legal complications, as the outputs may incorporate the work of multiple creators.
The gaming giant aims to ensure that developers possess the necessary rights to release games using generative AI.
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Sweeney's Take on Copyright and AI
Tim Sweeney acknowledged the copyright concerns associated with AI-generated assets.
However, he argued that games containing a mix of human-made content and AI-generated elements can be protected as a whole, even if individual assets lack protection.
The businessman also emphasized that while it is possible to misuse generative AI, the majority of cases do not involve intentional copying.
Sweeney reassured that Epic Games does not employ generative AI on customer content within its services or marketplace. He shared his perspective that not all generative AI should be viewed as infringing or problematic.
While acknowledging the potential for misuse, the Unreal Engine creator advocated a more nuanced approach to AI technology.
AI's Impact on Creators
In an earlier discussion with PC Gamer, Sweeney raised concerns about the impact of generative AI systems on creators using platforms like ArtStation, owned by Epic. He emphasized the importance of AI companies respecting creators' work and not collecting and repurposing art data without consent.
His statement signals a more inclusive approach to generative AI in the gaming industry and highlights the evolving conversation surrounding AI and copyright concerns.
Epic Games Store Free Titles
For Epic Games Store enjoyers, you can check the early freebies for the month of September 2023 which include Cave Story+ (August 31-September 7) and Spell Drifter (September 7-14). Make sure to claim these free games before it's too late.
If this is your first time downloading a free game on Epic Games Store, just log in to your account and click this website. It also works on the Epic Games Launcher.
Once you're done, search the name of the game and tap "Get."
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