SteamDB, the popular community-driven site for tracking updates and features on the Steam gaming platform, has introduced a new filtering option aimed at players who wish to avoid games developed with generative AI (Gen AI). This update allows users to easily exclude titles containing AI-generated content from their search results.
The announcement of this new feature came through SteamDB’s active social media presence on Bluesky. With the growing concern and interest surrounding AI technology's influence on game development, this filter empowers users to make informed choices about the games they wish to engage with.
To use the new filter, players need to navigate to the "Filter by User Tags" section on SteamDB. By inputting "AI" and selecting "AI content disclosed," users can identify games known to utilize generative AI technology. This filtering process doesn't just spotlight the technology itself; it emphasizes the developers' need for transparency about their game's content.
Notably, titles like Call of Duty and The Finals come with new disclosures on their pages. For example, the Call of Duty Steam page explicitly states, "Our team uses generative AI tools to help develop some game assets." This move to require transparency around AI involvement marks a significant step by major gaming companies as they begin to navigate the complex ethical and technical landscapes associated with AI integration.
Among the games listed on SteamDB, over 4,900 items are flagged for having 'AI content disclosed.' The presence of such disclosures adds clarity to players who may be concerned about the rapid development of AI systems within gaming. Among the most notable titles is Synduality, which disclosed uses of AI-generated content such as "garage radio chatter voice" alongside "AI-generated text to speech." This feature highlights how generative AI can be implemented even on smaller aspects of game design.
The recent development of the AI filtering function aligns with broader industry trends where indie developers are also marking their store pages with no generative AI stamps. This allows consumers to avoid games developed with AI technology altogether, catering to those who prefer traditional game design approaches. The effectiveness of the SteamDB filter relies heavily on how accurately developers fill out AI disclosures on their Steam pages.
While Valve has not yet integrated its filtering system for AI content directly within the Steam platform, SteamDB has stepped up to fill the gap, proving its value by facilitating informed choices for the gaming community. Players have recognized the potential necessity of these features, especially as large studio releases increasingly incorporate AI tools.
The user response has been overwhelmingly positive, with gamers appreciating the new level of transparency. For many, the updated filtering option provides clarity about how artificial intelligence can influence gameplay elements, artwork, and overall experience. Developers who are upfront about their AI use are more likely to maintain trust with their player base.
Looking forward, the introduction of the AI content filter could set precedents for gaming transparency and player preferences. This is especially pertinent as discussions about the ethical use of AI grow louder across multiple industries. The gaming community appears ready to hold developers accountable for their innovations, particularly concerning their accommodations for AI technologies.
For the present, SteamDB's innovation serves as both a tool for players and a message to game studios about the importance of transparency. It’s encouraging to see community-driven solutions arise to address gamers’ preferences and concerns about generative AI.
While this update is significant for current gaming environments, it remains to be seen how long this feature will last, especially as companies like Valve may eventually implement similar systems directly on their storefronts. Until then, SteamDB is undoubtedly helping players navigate the complex waters of AI and gaming with more autonomy.