Cygames announced an AI studio, and then put up an apology over it

The expansion of generative AI continues with Cygames recently announcing the formation of an AI studio. Fans weren't happy, and now Cygames have apologised.

Cygames made the likes of Umamusume, Granblue Fantasy and other games.

Announced in a post on January 9th written in Japanese on their official site, they mentioned forming "Cygames AI Studio". No guessing needed on what they were hoping to do with it. Seems they weren't expecting as much backlash as they received though, and so they've now apologised for it.

The post is only available via X/Twitter, here's what they put up:

To all our Cygames fans and supporters,

Over the past few days, we've received numerous comments expressing anger and disappointment from many of you. This was because we released a simplified announcement in Japanese concerning the founding of Cygames AI Studio, Inc., without addressing any of the current problems and social debates surrounding generative AI. We sincerely apologize for the concern we've caused.

We would like to take this opportunity to state that art produced from generative AI isn't used in our products. Furthermore, we won't implement generative AI into our products without prior notice. We hold in the highest regard those who love games, as well as the dignity, passion, and heart of the creators and artists who act as the architects of gaming culture. The art for all current Cygames games and other products is crafted from the technical know-how and manual work of our many staff members.

Once again, we deeply apologize for causing our beloved fans much grief and anxiety. We at Cygames will continue to honor creators, as well as champion the free expression of people, and, in doing so, will continue to strive to be the best in entertainment.

Thank you for your continued support.

Noticably, this is not actually them walking it back. They clearly still plan to go ahead with it, we'll just be given "prior notice" when they decide to stick it into their games. Then again, whenever they begin using it, perhaps they'll hope their fans will have forgotten about this.

Oh dear. There's going to be a lot more of all this ahead with all sorts of stories about generative AI in video games.