'Just deleted a couple terabytes of AI slop': Itch.io pushes back against the flood of AI on its storefront

Itch.io, a digital storefront catering to indie developers, is taking steps to curb the influx of AI-generated content flooding its platform. In a recent announcement on social media, the site revealed that it had deleted approximately two terabytes of AI-generated "slop" and introduced more filters to help users avoid such material.

The surge in AI-generated content has been a growing concern since Valve admitted that Steam was also grappling with a similar issue. Itch.io's user base has doubled over the past two months, but the number of downloads and purchases has not correspondingly increased. The site explained that while AI-generated content can be useful, it should not be used to mass-produce content.

Itch.io has now expanded its requirements for developers and publishers to disclose the use of generative AI, extending this disclosure to tabletop games, books, comics, and soundtracks. The site also introduced browsing and search filters to allow users to exclude content generated by AI. While Itch.io's move may not entirely stop the tide of AI-generated content, it is a step in the right direction, addressing the issue proactively and helping users navigate the platform more easily.