Jagex pulls RuneScape trailer after backlash over generative AI

RuneScape developer Jagex has pulled a promotional trailer for RuneScape 3's Dragon Slayer 2 quest following player criticism over the use of generative artificial intelligence. The video was shown during the studio's annual RuneFest convention over the weekend. PCGamesN, GamesIndustry.biz, Eurogamer, and MMORPG.com all reported that the developer removed the promotional material after users spotted AI artifacts in the sketch-style video. [1][2][3][4]

Players on Reddit identified several clear signs of generative AI in the trailer, including a character with a six-fingered hand and medieval boots that resembled modern sneakers. GamesIndustry.biz and Eurogamer reported that the trailer was created by an external production partner. In response to the backlash, Jagex stated that the third-party partner had used generative AI and acknowledged that the incident highlighted an issue with its own internal approval processes. [1][2][3]

Jagex stated that generative AI has no place in its creative work and promised to overhaul its review process to prevent similar incidents in the future. PCGamesN and MMORPG.com reported that the developer has taken down the trailer while it investigates the situation. The studio was founded in the United Kingdom and is best known for its flagship massively multiplayer online role-playing game RuneScape. [1][2][3][4][12]