Wizards of the Coast is developing a video game version of Magic: The Gathering's Commander format, as part of Hasbro's digital strategy to engage fans. This new game will differ from the Magic Arena app by allowing more than two players and featuring collectible elements, including collaborations with other franchises like Lord of the Rings and Marvel. The move follows recent changes in the custodianship of the Commander format and comes amid Hasbro's financial struggles, with its digital gaming segments showing growth despite overall revenue declines.
Wizards of the Coast, the IP-holder of Baldur's Gate, is actively seeking new developers for the next game in the franchise after Larian Studios' departure. RPG studios are showing interest, and the company is taking its time to find the right partner and approach for the future of Baldur's Gate.
Renowned artist Dave Rapoza has publicly ended his collaboration with Wizards of the Coast over allegations that the company used AI-generated art for promotional material of Magic: The Gathering, despite their policy against using AI for creating final products. Rapoza criticized the company for not being honest and for insulting the intelligence of the community by denying the use of AI when evidence suggested otherwise. He emphasized the importance of integrity and attention to values, and while he can afford to quit due to his diverse portfolio, he acknowledged that not all artists are in a position to do so. Rapoza is now focusing on comics and original ideas, highlighting the uniqueness of personal creativity in the face of replicable AI-generated work.
Wizards of the Coast and Respawn's Apex Legends are facing backlash for allegedly using AI-generated art in promotional materials. Wizards of the Coast, after claiming their art was human-made, faced criticism and inconsistencies pointing towards AI involvement, leading to artist Dave Rapoza cutting ties with them. Apex Legends also encountered fan complaints about AI artifacts in their promotions. Both incidents highlight the growing tension between the use of AI in art creation and the traditional art community, with unresolved responses from the companies involved.
Wizards of the Coast has refuted allegations that a promotional image for a new range of Magic: The Gathering cards was created using AI, despite their policy against using AI tools for final products. The company faced skepticism from fans and artists who noticed inconsistencies in the image, suggesting AI involvement. Calls for artist credits have been made to confirm the artwork's human origin, but Wizards of the Coast has yet to provide additional comments to address the ongoing controversy.
