Ubisoft, the publisher behind Assassin’s Creed, is making swift moves to rectify an unexpected inclusion in Anno 117: Pax Romana—an image featuring AI-generated elements that was not supposed to be part of the final game release.
Keen-eyed fans of the Anno series quickly noticed a peculiar loading screen in the latest entry. This screen, unlike others in the game, bore unmistakable signs of AI influence: missing limbs, unusual features, and oddly arranged elements.
Controversial AI Elements
Discussion erupted on Reddit, with reports highlighting that the game’s Steam page includes a disclaimer about AI tools being used for asset creation. Ubisoft explained the problematic image was merely a “placeholder” and shared a final human-crafted version meant to replace it.
“This image was a placeholder asset that unintentionally slipped through our review process,” a Ubisoft representative stated. “The final image is attached here and will replace the current version with the upcoming 1.3 patch.”
Ubisoft emphasized that Anno 117: Pax Romana represents their most ambitious Anno project yet, involving the largest team of artists in the franchise’s history. To tackle the project’s unique demands, these artists have employed AI tools for iterating, prototyping, and exploring ideas. Every aspect players experience in the completed game reflects the team’s dedication, creativity, and vision.
However, the final version of the image appears to have been merely retouched, suggesting that AI-generated elements deemed satisfactory might remain.
Comparative Approaches to AI
Ubisoft’s proactive steps contrast with Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 publisher Activision, which recently acknowledged its extensive use of AI-generated imagery in its latest shooter, particularly in Studio Ghibli-inspired calling cards. Activision claims its application of AI is meant to “empower and support our teams to create the best gaming experiences possible for our players.”
Previously, Activision confirmed AI imagery usage in Black Ops 6, following fan backlash over a notorious six-fingered zombie Santa example.
Despite the AI controversy, Anno 117: Pax Romana has been well-received. Described as “a gorgeous antique city-builder that sucked me in for dozens of hours,” the game has earned high praise and a notable score of 9/10.