"Living with the Jan Clan": Perseverance among the Multiple Jan Members
The intriguing survival management game, "The Alters," has found itself in the spotlight, not for its compelling gameplay, but for the use of AI-generated content within the game. Players have uncovered undisclosed AI elements in various aspects, such as background flavour text, image textures, and even in the Brazilian Portuguese translation of in-game licensed movies[1][2][3][4].
Settled on an alien planet in search of a valuable resource called Rapidium, protagonist Jan finds himself alone after his crew perishes during landing. To cope, Jan employs a quantum computer, Rapidium, and a machine to create alternative versions of himself, each with different roles, such as constructors, scientists, technicians, or doctors[1]. As the player, you control Jan, who sends his alternatives to work on various tasks, optimising the mobile base, building resource storage, and addressing the well-being of his alternative Jans[1][2].
Developer 11 Bit Studios has addressed these concerns, acknowledging that the AI-generated text and translations were primarily placeholders or last-minute fixes that were not replaced or properly reviewed before release[1][2][3]. They have committed to removing the AI-generated textures and fixing the translations through hotfixes, asserting that this was an oversight and a small part of the game's overall content.
However, the controversy has left a lasting impact on the game's reputation, with many players expressing concerns about the use of AI without proper disclosure, feeling that it undermines the artistic integrity and trust[1][2][3]. The debate has sparked discussions about transparency and quality in game development, as players expect clear labeling of AI-generated content on platforms like Steam, where such transparency is required[1][2][3].
"The Alters" is available for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC, and is rated for ages 16 and up (USK). With its unique concept, captivating gameplay, and the ongoing controversy surrounding its AI content, "The Alters" continues to generate interest and discussion within the gaming community[1].
[1] Kotaku, "The Alters Uses AI-Generated Content Without Proper Disclosure or Labeling" [2] Polygon, "The Alters Controversy: What You Need to Know" [3] IGN, "The Alters AI Controversy Explained" [4] GamesRadar+, "The Alters: What's Behind the Controversy?"
In the ongoing discussion about "The Alters," the intriguing use of artificial intelligence (artificial-intelligence) has been a contentious issue, with AI-generated content found in various elements such as background texts, image textures, and even translations of licensed movies (movies-and-tv). Despite developer 11 Bit Studios' acknowledgment and commitment to remove the AI-generated content and fix the translations, concerns about transparency (entertainment) in game development have arisen, as players expect clear labeling of AI-generated content.
