Japanese developer Cygames has issued an apology following backlash to its announcement of an AI-focused subsidiary. The studio assured fans that generative AI is not currently used in its games and promised prior notice for any future implementation. This comes amid growing industry debates over AI's role in game development.
On January 9, 2026, Cygames announced the establishment of Cygames AI Studio on its Japanese website. The new subsidiary aims to research and develop AI models while providing services to others, leveraging the company's game development expertise. Known for titles like Umamusume: Pretty Derby and Granblue Fantasy, Cygames faced immediate backlash from fans concerned about the potential use of generative AI in their favorite games.
The controversy escalated due to the ongoing heated discussions in the video game industry regarding artificial intelligence, particularly generative AI. Recent examples include backlash against games like Arc Raiders and Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 for incorporating the technology. Fans of Cygames' series expressed fears that AI could undermine the manual craftsmanship behind their games.
In response, on January 14, 2026, Cygames posted a statement on social media platform X, apologising for the 'concern' caused by the 'simplified' original announcement, which failed to address current social debates around generative AI. The studio clarified that 'art produced via generative AI is not used in its products,' and all current games have been 'crafted from the technical know-how and manual work' of its staff.
Cygames further committed that it 'won't implement generative AI into [its] products without prior notice' to the community. The company emphasised its high regard for game creators and artists, stating it intends to honour free expression while delivering top entertainment. It closed with another apology to fans and supporters.
While the statement seeks to reassure players, some remain wary, preferring no use of generative AI at all rather than just advance warning. Cygames' Umamusume: Pretty Derby won best mobile game at last year's The Game Awards, highlighting the studio's prominence in the industry. Observers will watch future releases closely for any AI integration.
