In a significant update to its game submission process, Valve has revised the declaration form used by developers when submitting games to Steam, emphasizing the disclosure of content that is “consumed by players.” This change, which acknowledges the growing role of generative AI within game development, aims to clarify what developers must report, shifting the focus away from the use of AI for “efficiency gains” to in-game content such as art, music, and writing.
Since the introduction of the AI disclosure section two years ago, the landscape of generative AI has evolved rapidly. The success of titles like Arc Raiders, which utilizes text-to-speech technology for character voice lines, exemplifies this trend. Despite concerns surrounding AI use, Valve’s requirement for developers to disclose any AI-generated content in their games reflects a pragmatic acceptance of the technology in the industry.
Recent screenshots shared by GameDiscoverCo on social media platforms reveal that Valve’s updated declaration form explicitly states, “many modern game development environments have AI-powered tools built into them,” reinforcing that the focus is now on the in-game content generated by AI. Developers are required to declare instances of AI usage, including “artwork, sound, narrative, localization, etc.” This move addresses consumer concerns regarding the authenticity and originality of game content.
Alongside the requirement for developers to disclose AI-generated content, Valve has also expanded its guidelines on the use of AI during gameplay. The platform will allow players to report any content they find inappropriate or infringing on copyright. Valve cautions developers that it is their responsibility to implement safeguards that prevent users from encountering such content, warning that failure to comply could result in their game being removed from the store.
The line distinguishing acceptable AI usage from unacceptable practices remains tenuous. While tools like Photoshop’s auto-fill feature have become normalized in creative industries, the gaming sector continues to grapple with defining standards around AI. Larian Studios recently faced backlash for its early-stage discussions on using generative AI tools in the development of Divinity, leading the team to establish a firm policy against employing these tools even during concept art stages.
Valve’s updated disclosure form serves to clarify existing policies rather than completely overhaul them, shifting the narrative to focus on player concerns over AI-generated content. This move could lead to a more transparent relationship between developers and consumers, as the gaming community becomes increasingly vigilant about the authenticity of game assets. Anticipation surrounds how these changes will influence the broader landscape of game development as players and developers navigate this new terrain.
As the conversation around generative AI continues to evolve, the impact of Valve’s changes could resonate beyond just Steam. The ongoing dialogue surrounding the ethical use of AI in gaming underscores a critical moment for the industry, potentially shaping standards and practices for years to come. Whether these measures will effectively address player concerns and foster a responsible approach to AI remains to be seen, but the implications of such technology in game creation are certain to be a topic of discussion for the foreseeable future.
