Valve, the operator of the prominent PC gaming marketplace Steam, is enacting new policies to address the increasing use of artificial intelligence in game growth. As AI tools rapidly evolve, offering developers new avenues for content creation, the company announced Friday it will require clear labeling of games containing AI-generated assets visible to players. The move aims to provide greater openness and comes amid ongoing industry discussions regarding the ethical considerations and artistic impact of AI-created content.
Steam Requires Developers to Disclose AI-Generated Game Assets
Valve, the company behind the popular PC gaming platform Steam, is now requiring game developers to clearly indicate when artificial intelligence has been used in the creation of assets players will encounter in the game. The new policy, announced on April 26, 2024, aims to increase transparency for users regarding the role of AI in game development.
According to the updated guidelines, developers must disclose the use of AI if it creates assets that are visible to players. This includes textures, 3D models, music, or any other content directly experienced during gameplay. The policy does not currently address AI used in development processes that don’t directly impact the player experience, such as debugging or code completion.
“We require developers to be transparent about whether AI-generated assets are included in their games,” Valve stated. “If your game contains AI-generated assets, you must clearly indicate this to users.”
The move comes as AI tools become increasingly sophisticated and accessible, allowing developers to rapidly generate game content. This has sparked debate within the industry about the potential impact of AI on artistic creativity and the value of human-created assets. The policy reflects a broader industry conversation about the ethical implications of AI-generated content.
Developers are expected to comply with the new rules by May 13, 2024. Failure to do so could result in consequences for games listed on Steam. Valve has provided examples of how developers can disclose AI usage on their game’s Steam page.
The platform’s updated rules are available here.
