Neverland to eternity: controversy over generative AI

The new gacha game Neverland to eternity, developed by Hotta Studio, quickly caught the attention of players and streamers because of possible uses of generative AI in the creation of game assets. While the game looks appealing at first glance with its cute characters and supernatural open world, concerns about the ethical implications of AI-generated content have made some prominent figures in the gaming community hesitant.

What is Neverland to eternity?

Neverland to eternity is a gacha game that lets players collect cute characters and explore an open world. The game also features realistic vehicles that players can drive. These features are usually attractive elements for fans of the genre.

Concerns about generative AI

Shortly after the game launched, players reported the presence of assets that may have been created with generative AI. This led to the discovery of 'artifacting', a phenomenon where unwanted distortions appear due to the use of AI in generating visual elements. During gameplay, players also noticed that a character's outfit seems to change when it is partially blocked by a hand.

Community reaction

Concerns over the possible use of generative AI have led both popular streamers and voice actors who were previously involved with the game to step away. Ironmouse, a well-known VTuber, shared that her team had been misled about AI use in Neverland to eternity. She said her sponsors had been assured that no AI was used, which led her to end her collaboration with the game.

Another VTuber, Shylily, ended her stream early when she learned more about the AI applications while playing. She said this is an ethical issue that harms artists, since their work can be used without permission.

The voice actors and their views

One of the game's English voice actors, Meggie-Elise, has also voiced her concerns. She said that her involvement in a project that may use AI does not align with her values. She stated that she does not support generative AI in creative fields such as voice work, art, and music. Meggie-Elise announced that she would stop working with Hotta Studio if the issue is not addressed properly.

The controversy surrounding Neverland to eternity is not unique; other titles, such as the popular extraction shooter Arc Raiders, have also faced criticism over the use of AI for voice work. Debates over the use of generative AI in the gaming industry continue to fuel heated discussions about ethics and creative rights.