Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has been a standout success in the gaming world, clinching multiple Game of the Year accolades and dominating various award categories. Recently, however, the title faced a setback when the Indie Game Awards revoked its Game of the Year win. This decision came after it was revealed that Sandfall Interactive, the game’s developer, utilized GenAI (generative AI) technology during its development.
Controversy and Revoked Awards
The controversy arose when the Indie Game Awards, an event celebrating the achievements of indie games, discovered that Clair Obscur: Expedition 33’s development incorporated GenAI, which contradicted the eligibility rules. Originally, the game had secured wins in both Debut Game and Game of the Year categories. However, the awards were rescinded after Sandfall Interactive confirmed the use of GenAI, following the resurfacing of a July interview with Spanish publication El País. The awards were then reassigned to the runner-up games: Sorry We’re Closed for Debut Game and Blue Prince for Game of the Year.
Industry Reactions
The Indie Game Awards, supported by publishers like Annapurna and Panic, are respected within the gaming community. Although the event does not gather as large an audience as The Game Awards, its jury comprises esteemed organizations such as the IGDA and indie-focused creators. The revelation of GenAI use has sparked debate about its role in game development, with strong opinions on both sides of the issue. Sandfall Interactive’s lack of transparency has prompted discussions about the ethics and implications of GenAI technology in the gaming industry.
This incident highlights the growing tension around GenAI’s role in game development, as more studios begin to explore its possibilities despite ongoing controversy.
But with how coy Sandfall Interactive has seemingly been with its own GenAI use, it seems like we’re still going to have a fair share of developers who fear the backlash that comes with the public knowing you’ve ‘gone to the dark side,’ so to speak.