– Kingdom Hearts 4 trailer shown, plus older games rereleased in a new bundle
– Bundle cover art accused of using generative AI (e.g., Donald Duck having wrong finger counts)
– Background details like clock towers and skyscrapers show AI-like inconsistencies
– Fans believe Tetsuya Nomura didn’t create the AI art; publisher may have recycled assets
– Critics say Square Enix used AI to save costs, distorting original artwork
First Impressions of the Kingdom Hearts Collection
The June Nintendo Direct definitely delivered for fans of the popular Square Enix and Disney RPG. Not only was a new Kingdom Hearts 4 trailer shown but older games is being reintroduced in a new bundle. However the Kingdom Hearts Collection [I~III] is facing scrutiny for allegedly using generative AI artwork.
Pre-Order Concerns About The Covers
With an October 8th release date the collection is available for the Switch 2, PS5, and Xbox consoles. Buyers considering pre-ordering the title recognised suspicious-looking retail covers. One of the most obvious examples is with the Switch 2 box where Donald Duck has a different number of fingers on each hand. The background graphics ring even more alarm bells.
Details on the Suspicious Artwork
Aspects of the clock tower and skyscraper may be products of genAI tools. Even on the Kingdom Hearts Collection PS5 cover followers detected inconsistencies. The various renditions of Sora depict the series main hero with oddly shaped hands and thumbs. Legendary Square Enix designer Tetsuya Nomura has created the bulk of the artwork for the Kingdom Hearts franchise.
Fan Theories and Explanations
Most fans doubt that Nomura himself would resort to machine learning leading them to consider other theories. DekuDraws who is an avid follower of Nomura offered an explanation on social media. He believes the work is authentic noting that on the Switch 2 box one of Donald Ducks mitts is hidden. It’s possible that the publisher used AI tools to separate the illustrations for the alternative covers.
Possible Shortcuts and Criticisms
Square Enix may have taken shortcuts to piece together existing illustrations into something new. That would explain the inconsistencies with how the characters positioning. They also don’t seem to blend into the background scenery which likely wasn’t originally drawn with them. At best the publisher is using sloppily designed images to promote the Kingdom Hearts Collection.
Final Thoughts on The Controversy
Critics point out that to save costs relying on generative AI to recycle assets can distort an artists work. Tracker_TD@Bluesky and DekuDraws X account has added their voices to the discussion but Square Enix has yet to issue a statement. The debate continues among fans and artists about the ethics of such techniques. This could set a precedent for future video game packaging and promotion. Many hope for clarity before the October release date.
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