After Street Fighter 6 contest winner reportedly used generative AI, Capcom replaces artwork

The use of AI in gaming is a contentious issue, but it’s usually developers who face scrutiny. In the case of Street Fighter 6, gamers suspected a contest winner of using the technology. Capcom disqualified the game art in question, leaving an opening for one of the winning spots. It has replaced the image of the Street Fighter 6 character Kimberly, but the outcome hasn't satisfied some fans.

In June, Capcom held the 2nd Street Fighter Art Contest, allowing players to vote on challenger screens for 26 characters. The unique artwork appears before matches begin in Street Fighter 6. Unfortunately, as explained by Automaton, gamers noticed some suspicious details with a popular Kimberly entry. Randomly drawn lines and irregular shapes can be telltale signs of generative AI.

When investing lilthascends, fighting game fans found evidence that the winner traced other illustrations. Also, the individual’s X account originated shortly before the contest began. Capcom disqualified the contestant, citing rules that state all game art must be original. Not surprisingly, lilthascends disappeared following the accusations.

The publisher promised a replacement for the Kimberly drawing, which it revealed on social media. However, it decided to use an image designed by a Street Fighter developer, rather than risk more controversy. Players are glad to have more challenger screens to choose from. Even so, for some supporters, it’s a sad way to end what was supposed to be a community event.

With the accessibility of generative AI, future contests may face similar issues. As the tools become more advanced, it will become difficult to spot what is actually original artwork. Meanwhile, players are on the lookout for any developers who take shortcuts when creating in-game assets.