
Outrage Erupts as Fans Expose AI Secrets Behind The Alters
2025-06-29
Author: Ken Lee
A Storm Brews Over AI Usage in The Alters
The gaming community is in uproar after fans uncovered that The Alters, developed by 11 Bit Studios, has been utilizing undisclosed AI prompts for subtitles and in-game text. This revelation raises serious questions about transparency and ethical practices in gaming.
AI Transparency Violations?
Since January 2024, Valve mandates that all games employing either pre- or live-generated AI must disclose such usage in their Steam Distribution Agreement. This includes all aspects of game development, from visual art to coding. Despite this rule, players have discovered no such disclaimer on The Alters' Steam page.
Intriguing AI Texts Unearthed
One revealing instance involved an in-game message that claimed, "Sure, here's a revised version focusing purely on scientific and astronomical data," prompting accusations of AI-generated content slipping through the cracks. Players have also reported bizarre translations, with one Brazilian Portuguese speaker noting that subtitles often went awry, leading to confusion and frustration.
Community Outrage
Players have voiced their frustration on Steam, criticizing 11 Bit Studios for using AI-generated content without proper disclosure: "We have the right to know what we're buying. If you're going to use AI to create content, be honest about it instead of trying to hide it." The demand for accountability is loud and clear.
Mixed Reactions from Fans
However, not everyone is up in arms. Some fans seem unbothered by the AI integration, arguing that the instance in question was too minor to warrant the level of backlash it received. "This is tiny text on a background prop," one player pointed out, dismissing the AI prompt as a non-issue.
Experts Weigh In
Game localization specialist Lucile Danilov added weight to the conversation, saying, "Leaving parts of an AI prompt in the lockit?! Talk about spitting in the face of your international audience!" She emphasized that inaccuracies in the Brazilian Portuguese translation seemed to stem from negligence, either by a careless translator or inadequate communication from the developers.
A Broader Issue for Localization
Handong Ryu, responsible for the Korean translation, confirmed similar problems existed in the Korean version. There’s growing discontent in the Korean gaming community, highlighting a global concern over quality in game localization and the role of AI.
Awaiting 11 Bit's Response
As of now, 11 Bit Studios has yet to respond to these serious allegations or the rising player discontent. The questions surrounding AI use in games continue to stir debate, especially as other titles like Jurassic Park Evolution 3 have already begun removing AI-generated content in response to player feedback.
A Unique Gaming Experience?
Despite the controversies, Eurogamer's review of The Alters praised its unique approach and compelling narrative, awarding it a solid 4 out of 5 stars. As Bertie put it, the game challenges players with moral dilemmas and engages questions about values in life, highlighting its innovative ideas.
As the dust settles, the gaming community waits for 11 Bit Studios' next move. Will transparency prevail, or will the shadows of AI remain? Only time will tell.