UK Games Expo bans games and art made mostly using AI

The UK Games Expo, the United Kingdom's premier tabletop gaming convention, has announced a new policy banning games and other products mostly created using artificial intelligence from displaying on its exhibition floor. The organizers cited the need to support original works crafted by human designers, publishers, artists, illustrators, and writers.

Under the new rules, any exhibitor displaying or selling AI-generated items would be required to remove them or face closure of their booth and potential banishment from future UKGE events. The policy specifically targets art, text, craft items, and various products used in tabletop games and related accessories. The only allowable exception is the use of computerized tools for spell checking, minor editing, and aiding in production or enhancing accessibility.

This move comes amid a surge of legal battles surrounding AI technology, with major tech companies facing allegations of copyright infringement. In response, many creatives have expressed concern over their work being threatened by AI and the potential job loss in the creative industry. Notably, UKGE had previously faced criticism for promoting a tabletop game mostly developed using AI, leading to backlash and accusations of suppressing negative feedback.

This policy marks a significant change in the convention's approach to AI-generated content, aligning it with the growing trend of restrictions on AI-created material in the creative sector.