Manor Lords Developer Dispels AI Art Rumors and Highlights Human Talent in Upcoming Patch

Manor Lords' creator and mostly solo developer Greg Styczeń has addressed the speculation around the game potentially using AI-generated art and refuted the rumors.

The next patch for Manor Lords, expected in the coming weeks, will introduce crossbows, fishing ponds, and various other enhancements to the popular city builder. Among the new features are additional character portraits, and the patch notes provide a preview of these. Some individuals on Reddit speculated that the artwork "looks kinda AI-generated."

Styczeń promptly addressed these speculations, confirming that the quality achieved is beyond current AI capabilities. He humorously defended the work, suggesting there's "no need to insult [character artist Beata Krzywdzinska] by assuming it was." Krzywdzinska is responsible for creating the stunning portraits of the playable Lords and Ladies in the game.

The patch notes were intended to offer a brief look at the upcoming features. While some elements might change before the update is released, it is clear that AI-generated content isn't part of the plans. The quality of Krzywdzinska's work remains unmatched by current AI technology.

The debate about AI's role in the gaming industry has intensified over recent months, especially as major publishers like Activision Blizzard have started to adopt the technology discreetly. Additionally, unionized video game actors, represented by SAG-AFTRA, have announced plans to strike against companies like EA, Disney, and Activision to ensure protections against AI use.

The publisher of Manor Lords has also encouraged other studios to prioritize the well-being of all developers instead of solely focusing on creating the next viral success.