Balatro Dev Localthunk Addresses AI Art Controversy on Reddit

Localthunk, the creator of the popular roguelike poker game Balatro, recently intervened to clarify the stance on AI-generated art within the game's subreddit community. The issue arose after DrTankHead, a former moderator of the Balatro subreddit and current moderator of a related NSFW subreddit, publicly stated that AI-generated art would be allowed on both subreddits if properly tagged. This statement was made following what DrTankHead claimed were discussions with Playstack, Balatro's publisher.

Localthunk quickly responded on Bluesky, distancing themselves and Playstack from the moderator's stance on AI art. They then made a comprehensive statement on the subreddit, firmly opposing the use of AI-generated imagery. "Neither Playstack nor I condone AI 'art'. I don't use it in my game, I think it does real harm to artists of all kinds," Localthunk stated. They also announced the removal of DrTankHead from the moderation team and confirmed that AI-generated images would no longer be permitted on the subreddit.

Following this, Playstack's communications director acknowledged that the rules surrounding AI content could have been clearer, as a previous rule about "no unlabeled AI content" may have been misinterpreted. The remaining moderation team plans to revise the language to prevent future misunderstandings.

DrTankHead, after being removed as a moderator, addressed the situation on the NSFW Balatro subreddit. They clarified that while they do not intend to make the subreddit AI-centric, they are considering a designated day for posting non-NSFW AI-generated art. A user suggested that DrTankHead take a break from Reddit for a week or two in response.

The controversy around AI-generated content in the gaming and entertainment industries reflects broader concerns about ethics, rights, and the quality of AI-produced material. Despite these issues, tech companies like EA and Capcom continue to invest heavily in AI, with EA describing AI as central to its business and Capcom exploring its use for generating in-game environment ideas. Even Activision has admitted to using generative AI for assets in Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, which stirred controversy over an AI-generated zombie Santa loading screen.