A controversy over AI-generated artwork recently unfolded on the Balatro subreddit, leading to decisive action from the game’s developer, Localthunk, and publisher, Playstack. The situation arose when a former subreddit moderator, DrTankHead, permitted AI-generated art on the forum, provided it was properly labeled. However, Localthunk swiftly intervened, making it clear that neither they nor Playstack condone AI-generated imagery. As a result, DrTankHead was removed from the moderation team, and AI art was officially banned from the subreddit.
The Origins of the Controversy
The issue began when DrTankHead, a moderator of the Balatro subreddit, introduced a policy allowing AI-generated artwork in both the main and NSFW subreddits as long as it was tagged accordingly. This decision was reportedly made following discussions with Playstack. However, the policy quickly drew criticism from community members who opposed AI-generated content.
Localthunk, the developer of Balatro, responded publicly by stating that AI-generated imagery was not used in the game and that AI art harms human artists. The developer firmly rejected the policy and took immediate steps to remove DrTankHead from the moderation team while instituting a formal ban on AI-generated artwork in the subreddit.
A mod recently changed the flair in this subreddit for AI generated art making it seem like Playstack condones AI art. This was not due to a direct order from Playstack (A Playstack representative told me this) but from a interpretation of a message about enforcing the rules of the subreddit.
Neither Playstack nor I condone AI ‘art’. I don’t use it in my game, I think it does real harm to artists of all kinds. The actions of this mod do not reflect how Playstack feels or how I feel on the topic. We have removed this moderator from the moderation team.
Following the controversy, Playstack admitted that the guidelines regarding AI-generated content had been unclear. The publisher acknowledged the need for clearer rules and announced that the remaining moderation team would be revising the subreddit’s policies and FAQ to ensure AI-generated artwork is explicitly prohibited.
Meanwhile, after being removed as a moderator, DrTankHead confirmed their departure and addressed the situation on the NSFW Balatro subreddit. They suggested a compromise—allowing AI-generated non-NSFW art on specific days of the week. However, this proposal received backlash from users who viewed it as an attempt to continue promoting AI art despite the clear stance taken by the developer and publisher.
The Balatro AI art controversy reflects the ongoing debate surrounding generative AI in the video game and entertainment industries. While some companies, such as EA and Capcom, have embraced AI for creative applications, others have faced significant challenges. Keywords Studios, for instance, attempted to develop a game using AI but ultimately found the technology insufficient for replacing human talent.
As AI-generated content continues to evolve, ethical concerns remain at the forefront of discussions. Players, artists, and developers are divided on whether AI should play a role in creative industries, particularly when it comes to replacing human artists. The backlash against AI-generated content in the Balatro community suggests that many players remain resistant to its integration in gaming spaces.
