Steam's Game-Changing AI Policy Update
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Vve's Ban on AI-Generated Content
- Updates to Steam's Policies
- Categories of AI Usage in Games
- Pre-generated AI Content
- Live-generated AI Content
- Reporting Illegal Content
- Exceptions for Adult-only Sexual Content
- Steam's Approach and Future Revisions
- Conclusion
Introduction
Artificial intelligence (AI) has become a prominent topic in the world of Game development. In this article, we will explore the recent announcement from Vve regarding their Steam platform's policy on AI-generated content. This polarizing subject has sparked controversy among developers and players alike. With the changes made by Steam, we will delve into the implications of using AI in game development and the impact it may have on developers and consumers.
Vve's Ban on AI-Generated Content
In June 2023, Vve implemented a ban on games on Steam that utilized artificial intelligence. Although Vve did not publish a public policy, a Reddit post shed light on their rejection of a game due to the presence of AI-generated art assets that relied on copyrighted material. This ban raised concerns among developers who utilized AI Tools such as mid-journey and Stable Diffusion. They feared their games would be rejected under the assumption of lacking ownership rights.
Updates to Steam's Policies
After several months of evaluating the legal complexities and advancements in AI technology, Steam announced significant changes to their handling of games that incorporate AI. These changes aim to enable the release of most games that utilize AI technology, providing Clarity and guidelines for developers.
Categories of AI Usage in Games
Steam has classified the usage of AI in games into two broad categories: pre-generated and live-generated AI content. These categories distinguish the different ways AI is used in the development and execution of games.
Pre-generated AI Content
Pre-generated AI content refers to any kind of content, be it art, code, or sound, that is created with the assistance of AI tools during development. Developers using tools like co-pilot or similar AI-assisting tools must disclose their usage in the content survey submitted to Steam. The responsibility lies with the developer to ensure that no illegal or infringing content is included in their game. Steam will evaluate the output of AI-generated content, ensuring it aligns with the promises made by the developer.
Live-generated AI Content
Live-generated AI content involves content created with the help of AI tools while the game is running. In addition to the rules applicable to pre-generated AI content, developers must disclose the guardrails in place to prevent the generation of illegal content. This requirement applies to games with dynamic assets, including AI-powered dialogue tools and ever-evolving generated content.
Reporting Illegal Content
Steam has introduced a new system that allows players to report illegal content within games that contain live-generated AI content. By using in-game overlays, players can easily submit a report if they come across content they believe should have been caught by the appropriate guardrails of AI generation. This shift in responsibility encourages developers to be diligent in preventing the release of potentially problematic AI-generated content.
Exceptions for Adult-only Sexual Content
While Steam is more open to accepting games that use AI technology, they still maintain their restrictions on adult-only sexual content generated with live-generated AI. Currently, Steam cannot release such content due to undisclosed reasons. This exception acknowledges the sensitive nature of explicit content and the legal complexities surrounding its generation using AI.
Steam's Approach and Future Revisions
Steam's updated policies reflect their commitment to learning and adapting to the rapidly evolving landscape of AI in gaming. They continue to Gather insights from submitted games and engage in conversations with developers and AI Tool creators. As the legal aspects of AI-generated content remain under scrutiny, Steam acknowledges that revisions to their policies may be necessary in the future.
Conclusion
The integration of AI in game development has brought about both opportunities and challenges. With Steam's updated policies, developers can now navigate the use of AI-generated content more transparently. While the tagging of AI usage may have potential ramifications on sales, the responsibility to ensure legal and non-infringing content lies with the developers. As the gaming industry continues to explore the possibilities of AI, it is essential for both developers and players to understand and adapt to these changes.
Highlights
- Vve's ban on AI-generated content caused concern among developers.
- Steam has updated its policies to allow the majority of AI-generated games.
- AI usage in games is categorized as pre-generated and live-generated content.
- Developers must disclose their AI usage and assess potential illegal content.
- Players can now report illegal content within games using live-generated AI.
- Exceptions are made for adult-only sexual content generated with AI.
- Steam continues to learn and revise policies based on industry developments.
FAQ
Q: How did Vve's ban on AI-generated content affect game developers?
A: Vve's ban raised concerns among game developers who relied on AI tools for content generation. Many feared their games would be rejected due to uncertain ownership rights.
Q: What are the categories of AI usage in games according to Steam's updated policies?
A: Steam categorizes AI usage as pre-generated AI content and live-generated AI content, each with its own guidelines and disclosure requirements.
Q: How does Steam handle the reporting of illegal content in games using AI?
A: Steam has implemented an in-game reporting system that allows players to report illegal content generated by live-generated AI. Developers are responsible for implementing guardrails to prevent such content.
Q: Are there exceptions to Steam's acceptance of AI-generated content?
A: Steam does not currently accept adult-only sexual content generated with live-generated AI. The reasons for this exception have not been disclosed.
Q: Will Steam's policy changes impact game sales?
A: The tagging of AI usage may have an impact on sales as some consumers may choose to avoid games that utilize AI-generated content. However, the extent of this impact is yet to be determined.
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