Image via Hotta Studio and Perfect World
Following NTE: Neverness to Everness players finding examples of generative artificial intelligence (genAI) usage in visuals and graphics in the game after launch, Hotta Studio and Perfect World Games issued a statement on social media admitting the team used AI in the game. It also claimed it is “reworking” two of the video examples people caught while playing the game. The statement did not include an apology for not using artwork created by human beings.
Here is the text from the full statement the Hotta Studio team released on social media. It referred to criticisms as feedback. It also claimed that the NTE: Neverness to Everness genAI usage was limited to AI making “background and environmental assets.” While it said it is “reviewing and reworking” the “Clear Skies in Summer” and “Pink Paws Heist” videos players pointed out, the statement did not mention if this means they will be entirely remade and reanimated by human artists.
“Dear Appraisers,
Thank you for the feedback. It matters to us.
Neverness to Everness is built on human creativity. The characters, stories, and world you experience are the work of artists, writers, and designers. AI-assisted tools were used only on a small number of background and environmental assets, not on the characters or stories that define this game.
We’re already reviewing and reworking the flagged assets: “Clear Skies in Summer” and “Pink Paws Heist”.
Your feedback shapes this game, so please keep it coming. We’re listening, and we’re committed to delivering the quality you deserve.
Sincerely, The NTE Team”
For an example of one of the AI assets in NTE: Neverness to Everness, here’s a video clip shared by Hourly Nicole on social media.
Following that discovery, Vtuber Ironmouse explained that Hotta Studio and Perfect World lied to her about AI usage in NTE: Neverness to Everness. When discussing a paid stream for it, the teams behind it told her that there was no genAI in the game. She then affirmed her commitment to play no games with AI in them.
Meggie-Elise, a voice actress who appeared in NTE: Neverness to Everness, also spoke out against the companies behind it. The performer also voiced displeasure about the situation and pledged to leave the game if the situation and offending art “is not addressed and removed.”
NTE: Neverness to Everness is on the PS5, PC, and Android and iOS mobile devices.