Pokemon Accused Of Using AI Art In New Promotion

The Pokémon Company is facing a new wave of criticism from fans who suspect the use of generative AI in a recent promotional image. While the company has yet to comment, the controversy highlights a growing tension and distrust within fan communities regarding AI-generated content.

The Suspicious Artwork

The image in question promotes the upcoming Pokémon Astronomical Observatory, a touring museum exhibit set to launch in Japan. At first glance, the artwork is charming, featuring Pikachu as an astronomer gazing at the cosmos. However, eagle-eyed fans, led by Pokémon historian and archivist Lewtwo on X, quickly pointed out several strange anomalies in the background.

Observers noted that the observatory building appears to contain a glowing furnace, and some of the structure's architectural lines seem to warp or disappear entirely—common hallmarks of AI-generated images that struggle with logical consistency. This situation is reminiscent of a previous controversy involving Pokémon Go, where developer Niantic was also accused of using AI art in its promotional materials.

Human Characters, AI Background

Interestingly, fans generally agree that the Pokémon characters themselves, including Pikachu and a floating Cosmog, appear to be hand-drawn by a human artist. One commenter noted that zoomed-in details, like the brushwork around Jirachi's eyes, show signs of human creation. This suggests a hybrid approach where a human artist's work may have been placed on top of a background generated by AI. While only the background is being questioned, many fans see this as the start of a slippery slope for one of the world's most beloved brands.

A Wider Industry Problem

This incident is not isolated. The art world has seen similar debates, such as the controversy over a Fantastic Four poster earlier this year. It underscores a significant challenge in the creative industry today: fans and consumers are becoming increasingly vigilant, scrutinizing digital art for any sign of AI involvement. The controversy shows that for many, the authenticity of the creative process matters, and the undisclosed use of AI can feel like a betrayal of trust. As the debate continues, it raises the question of whether a 'not made by AI' label will become necessary to reassure audiences.