Hot Shots Golf Fans Fume at Use of Generative AI in PS5 Revival

Sony is granting the rights for Bandai Namco to publish Everybody’s Golf: Hot Shots, as part of an innovative new business approach that has previously resulted in the re-release of the beloved PlayStation Vita game, Freedom Wars, by Bandai Namco.

However, although this appears advantageous for the dormant franchise brands, fans are expressing their discontent over the prospective application of generative AI in the forthcoming arcade golf resurgence.

Or more casually:
While it looks like a good deal for these old franchises, fans aren’t happy about the idea of using AI in the upcoming arcade golf comeback.

According to Steam’s updated platform policy, the product page for the forthcoming release mentions that “the tree and leaf textures were made using AI-generated pictures”. However, it should be noted that these images were overseen and refined by the game developers.

It’s worth mentioning that what we’re discussing here differs from tools such as SpeedTree, a widely recognized software for creating vegetation, which might be something you are already acquainted with.

SpeedTree essentially functions as an artist’s tool for creating realistic vegetation and foliage dynamically, on-the-spot. In your example, it appears that Bandai Namco may have employed AI technology to generate the textures found on the vegetation they used in their project.

While it’s not nearly as bad as some of the poor-quality content we’ve encountered on the PlayStation Store recently, we seem to be approaching a questionable path.

Indeed, some individuals might contend that employing AI for tasks as simple as generating leafy textures is an intelligent application of the tech, enhancing cost savings and productivity. However, many others express concerns that this could diminish the authentic, handmade quality that’s traditionally associated with such releases.

As we progress, it’s quite probable that we’ll witness an increase in the use of such technology, as all publishing entities are actively exploring methods to enhance their operations using advanced AI technologies.

What are your thoughts on Bandai Namco’s revelation? Does it make you less interested in their upcoming golf game? Share your views in the comment area below.

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2025-06-26 01:36