A minor conflict in the Balatro subreddit has prompted developer LocalThunk to clearly state their position on AI-generated art, declaring it harmful to artists and unwelcome in the community.

A now-former moderator, DrTankHead, ignited the debate by stating that AI art would not be banned if properly labeled, causing backlash from members who support traditional artistry.

In response to the uproar, LocalThunk asserted:

“Neither PlayStack nor I condone AI ‘art’. I don’t use it in my game; I think it does real harm to artists of all kinds.” Translation: They believe AI-generated content diminishes the work of human artists.

Additionally, Wout van Halderen, the Communications Director for PlayStack, reinforced that the use of AI art is not supported, advocating for stricter guidelines against untagged AI content. Changes to subreddit rules now explicitly prohibit AI-generated art.

The ongoing contentious sentiment towards AI in gaming communities echoes the larger debate about digital art’s future in an AI-augmented world.