Nexon, the developer behind *The First Descendant*, is facing backlash for using AI-generated TikTok ads. Some of these ads are accused of impersonating real content creators, which has upset many in the gaming community.
A Reddit user, u/iHardlyTriHard, noticed several of these ads while scrolling through TikTok. They found four AI ads in just 15 minutes, along with two others that weren’t generated by AI. The main concern is that one ad used the likeness of content creator DanieltheDemon, potentially without his permission.
Many players are frustrated. One comment expressed, “If I saw these ads before playing the game, I’d think it was fake or a scam.” This sentiment isn’t uncommon. Players feel that these AI ads undermine real creators, especially since Nexon has a program called Nexon Creators with over 8,800 signed up. It seems odd to many that they would opt for AI instead of actual gamers.
Some users have also reported that comments criticizing the ads are being deleted. There’s even talk of the team re-uploading the ads whenever there’s too much negative feedback. So far, Nexon hasn’t issued a statement addressing these concerns, although outlets like Eurogamer are seeking their input.
This isn’t the first time AI use has raised eyebrows in the gaming world. Earlier this year, players criticized 11 Bit Studios for using AI in their game *The Alters*—specifically in subtitles and flavor text—without clear disclosure. The studio later claimed that these elements were either temporary or minor and were not intended for the final version.
As developers increasingly turn to AI, the debate continues. While AI can cut costs and speed up production, the use of real people’s likenesses and the lack of transparency can damage trust. A recent study from the Pew Research Center shows that 54% of Americans believe that AI will negatively impact jobs. As players demand authenticity, developers face a tough choice: balance the efficiency of AI with the community’s expectations for genuine content.
For more on AI’s impact on gaming and content creation, you can read reports from authoritative sources like [Pew Research Center](https://www.pewresearch.org/) or [Eurogamer](https://www.eurogamer.net/).
