With generative AI fraud rampant, a game developer forces job applicants to draw in-person

The prevalence of generative AI is an issue not only for many gamers but also for studios hunting for talent. After spotting a Daily Shincho article, Automaton reported on how one Japanese company is tackling AI fraud. Instead of accepting existing samples, job applicants now must create artwork during interviews.

Daily Shincho spoke to a lead graphic designer at a medium-sized game studio, referring to the person as “Mr. B”. He describes how previous aspiring designers were recruited only to discover they relied on generative AI tools.

Even with more sophisticated software, machine-generated AI images may not match the quality of human talent. With enough requests to apps like Stable Diffusion, it’s also possible to reproduce images that may infringe on copyrights.

How can studios weed out AI-fraud?

Since AI fraud detection tools are often unreliable, the company devised an antiquated solution to the problem. Mr. B now requires artists to draw in front of him to prove they can produce original work. He reveals that some of his competitors are also following this example. However, the approach may not be practical, as it adds considerable time to job searches.

Another problem the head designer faces is that upper management doesn’t share his concerns. Mr. B explains that some of these leaders suggest that “Maybe generative AI will suffice without hiring creators.” There is also a greater desire to hire employees skilled in using generative AI tools.

Defenders of human creativity in gaming may be fighting a losing battle. GamesIndustry.biz discussed a survey that found that 87% developers depend on AI. In many cases, apps only assist with office tasks, but machine-produced images in games are becoming more standard. Fortnite has joined Arc Raiders as another major title to face criticism over publishing AI images.