Your Facebook-loving aunt isn’t the only one getting duped by generative AI. On Monday, Sony listened to flustered players’ lamentations and pulled several AI-generated games from its storefront. Some speculate Sony’s sudden move results from gaming news outlets’ coverage and growing social media outrage. These strange “AI slop” titles have been a point of contention for gamers and developers in recent months. Much like the implausible, caricature-like images shared across social media, these releases capture the attention of consumers using “uncanny valley” feature images alongside misleading teasers and content descriptions.
The Rise of ‘Shovelware’
You’ve likely seen at least one AI-generated release if you’ve checked out the Nintendo eShop, PlayStation Store, or other online video game sales portals in the last six months. They’re relatively easy to spot — nonsensical titles, hazy and cartoonish imagery, oddly cinematic trailers that show no gameplay — but identification is complicated when sold alongside titles from hardworking human creatives. Many of these poorly-assembled, hastily-released titles even incorporate design elements from existing games to dupe unsuspecting consumers. At their worst, some of this high quantity-low quality “shovelware” doesn’t even exist; some buyers open downloads only to be taken to error pages.
At their core, these groups’ intentions are predatory to both consumers and developers. These “studios” churn out content reminiscent of existing successful titles, hoping to lure unwitting buyers into making a purchase.
While Sony’s removal of spammy titles is a step in the right direction, real change and justice for consumers and studios requires sweeping changes industry-wide. Pulling titles individually won’t address the problem at its roots. Like a content-farming hydra feeding on low-hanging fruit, removing a single title means three more “operate on Elsa” titles take its place. To control the epidemic, online storefronts like Steam, Nintendo eShop, PlayStation Store, and Microsoft Store must enact anti-AI policies or implement rigorous content standards.
Don’t Get Duped
Before you scratch and reveal that security code on your Nintendo eShop gift card, follow these steps:
- Research listed developers and studios. We all love a good indie game, but if you’ve never heard of the publisher, developer, or IP, take a few seconds to plug the info into your preferred search engine or social media platform. Do they have a web presence? If yes, for how long?
- Read reviews. Game reviewers, whether professional or casual, don’t mince words. Are reviews overwhelmingly positive? Are they using similar language?
- Reach out to a friend for help. Text a trusted video game fan and ask if they’ve played the title you’re about to buy. If they vouch, great! Otherwise, that confused emoji in response might be the only sign you need.
- Report suspicious content. If you find a title incorporating other studios’ content, using spammy language, or otherwise operating in bad faith, connect with your e-store purveyor on social media. Include the title, developer, publisher, and other identifying information. Express your unease and unwillingness to buy.
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A lifelong gamer raised on classic titles like Crash Bandicoot, Spyro, and Croc, Stephanie brings her expertise of gaming and pop culture to deliver unique, refreshing views on the world of video games, complete with references to absurd and obscure media.
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