Nintendo Rejects AI in Mario Kart Ads Claims

Nintendo has denied allegations that it employed AI-generated imagery for billboards in Mario Kart World.

Speculation arose after a Nintendo Treehouse livestream offered an early look at the upcoming racing game. Observant fans noticed anomalies in some in-game advertisements, including a construction scene, a bridge, and an unusually elongated vehicle, sparking debate.

While pre-release builds often feature temporary assets, Nintendo explicitly denied using AI-made content, stating to Eurogamer: "No AI-generated imagery was incorporated during Mario Kart World's development."

Generative AI remains a contentious topic across creative fields, particularly in game development. Beyond ethical and copyright challenges, labor organizations worry about job displacement, while voice actors demand safeguards against AI usage.

During a September interview, Nintendo veteran Shigeru Miyamoto emphasized the company's preference for diverging from industry trends regarding AI. Contrasting EA CEO Andrew Wilson's view of AI as "fundamental to operations" — a stance IGN analyzed further — Miyamoto affirmed Nintendo's distinctive approach.

Speaking with The New York Times, Miyamoto cited AI as an area where Nintendo intentionally charts its own course.

"Some might interpret this as contrarianism, but we're genuinely pursuing what distinguishes Nintendo," Miyamoto explained.

"Take AI discourse," he continued. "When consensus forms around a direction, that's precisely when we seek alternatives."

These remarks followed July comments from Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa, who acknowledged generative AI's creative potential while highlighting intellectual property concerns.

"Our decades of expertise in crafting unparalleled gaming experiences remains paramount," Furukawa noted. "Though we embrace technological advances, we're committed to delivering uniquely Nintendo experiences that transcend mere technology."

The forthcoming Nintendo Switch 2 — featuring Mario Kart World as an exclusive — launches June 5. Preorders commenced April 24 at $449.99, meeting overwhelming demand. For details, consult IGN's Nintendo Switch 2 preorder guide.

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