Nintendo Insists AI-Generated Images Were Not Used in the Development of Mario Kart World After In-Game Billboards Sparked Speculation

Nintendo has publicly denied allegations that it used AI-generated images in the development of its upcoming title, Mario Kart World. The controversy sparked after a recent Nintendo Treehouse livestream offered fans an early look at the game. Observant viewers noticed something unusual about certain billboards within the game environment—specifically, imagery depicting a construction site, a bridge, and a notably tall car—that led to speculation about the use of artificial intelligence in asset creation.

While placeholder graphics are common in pre-release builds and typically replaced before launch, Nintendo issued a clear statement to Eurogamer, affirming: "AI-generated images were not used in the development of Mario Kart World."

The debate around generative AI remains a critical topic across creative industries, especially within game development. Concerns range from ethical and copyright implications to fears over AI potentially displacing human labor. Voice actors and other creatives have increasingly called for stronger protections against unchecked AI integration.

Last September, Nintendo’s legendary designer Shigeru Miyamoto made it clear that the company intends to take a unique path when it comes to AI adoption. Unlike some major publishers such as EA, where CEO Andrew Wilson described AI as "the very core of our business"—as explored further by IGN-Miyamoto emphasized Nintendo's commitment to creative independence.

In a recent interview with The New York Times, Miyamoto noted how the gaming industry often converges on similar trends when new technologies emerge:

"It might seem like we are just going the opposite direction for the sake of going in the opposite direction, but it really is trying to find what makes Nintendo special,"

he explained. He continued:

"There is a lot of talk about A.I., for example. When that happens, everyone starts to go in the same direction, but that is where Nintendo would rather go in a different direction."

Miyamoto’s perspective aligns with comments previously made by Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa, who acknowledged the potential of generative AI while highlighting concerns around intellectual property:

"We have decades of know-how in creating the best gaming experiences for our players. While we are open to utilizing technological developments, we will work to continue delivering value that is unique to Nintendo and cannot be created by technology alone."

As anticipation builds for the release of the Nintendo Switch 2, which will serve as the exclusive platform for *Mario Kart World*, gamers worldwide are eagerly awaiting the next era of Nintendo innovation. The console officially launches on June 5, following pre-orders that began April 24 at a price point of $449.99. For more details, check out IGN’s Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order guide.