Steam clarifies its stance and restrictions on AI-generated content. Learn more about Steam's developer assistance, its views on AI-content, and its future approach to copyright protection.
Valve Clarifies AI-Content Policies
Steam Supports Developers But Must Ensure Appropriate Permissions To Ship Games
Valve Corporation recently issued a statement addressing the use of AI-generated content on its digital distribution platform, Steam. The decision came after a blog post gained traction on Reddit and Twitter, revealing that Valve had to reject developers for incorporating obviously AI-generated assets. To shed light on the matter, Valve provided further insight into its approach to policing AI-generated content on Steam.
Valve's principal goal has always been to support developers and release as many titles as possible. However, using AI technology complicates this process because it is not always clear whether developers have the legal authority to employ AI when producing assets like text, music, and photos. Valve emphasized that it is up to developers to make sure they have the necessary authorizations before releasing their games.
Valve Acknowledges Landscape Constantly Evolving
In response to the legal ambiguities surrounding AI-generated assets, Valve admitted that the situation is ever-changing. As a result, the company intends to modify its existing review policies to account for this new technology. Valve underlined that rather than adding a second layer of subjective judgment, its review process is made to mirror existing copyright rules and practices. Consequently, Valve's review process will change as copyright laws and practices do.
Understanding that AI technology is primed to play a big part in the future of game production, Valve made it clear that it continues to embrace and support innovation on its platform. The business emphasized that although developers can use AI technologies with the proper commercial licenses, they must not violate any already-existing copyrights.
AI-generated material has been a growing contentious issue because it may involve art theft and copyright violation. Last May, System Shock received criticisms for an AI art stunt it did for its Twitter promotions.
Valve's statement highlighted the company's commitment to refining its review process. While app-submission credits are typically non-refundable, Valve expressed its willingness to offer exceptions in cases where AI-generated content has caused complications. The company pledged to continue working on its review process, aiming to balance embracing innovation and upholding copyright protection.
Source:
Eurogamer Interview With Valve
