Mario Kart World does not include AI-generated images, according to a new statement from Nintendo.
Some fans speculated the Switch 2 launch title might include AI images based on footage shown during a recent Nintendo Treehouse livestream, where certain odd billboards set off a few AI alarm bells. In a statement to Eurogamer, Nintendo looked to put the speculation to rest.
“AI-generated images were not used in the development of Mario Kart World,” a Nintendo spokesperson said.
The images in question were billboards with text like “We Build Your Town” or “We Build Your Dreams” accompanied by odd images, like an under-construction skyscraper with strange pathways. Another image that had fans wondering was one of a car with unusually large windows and small tires, something that looked similar to what a generative AI might cook up.
Since Mario Kart World isn’t yet out, it’s possible what was shown in the gameplay livestream was simply placeholder or unfinished art. Regardless, Nintendo’s statement seems fairly definitive, so fans worried about the use of AI art in the $80 game can rest easy (even if Nintendo has not done a great job justifying its price).
With the game’s June 5 release coming fast, here’s everything we currently know about Mario Kart World, ranging from the number of playable characters to all of Mario Kart World’s items. Mario Kart World and accessories are currently available for preorder. Meanwhile, the Switch 2 Mario Kart World launch bundle will be discontinued this fall.
In a hands-on preview, we called Mario Kart World a bold and ambitious sequel to Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, featuring fun new surprises while maintaining the franchise’s signature personality.
