A recent job posting by Wizards of the Coast for a principal AI engineer sparked controversy among fans of Dungeons & Dragons and Magic: The Gathering. The posting indicated that the position would involve utilizing AI programs in game development, asset creation, and automated frameworks for video game projects. This led to speculation that Wizards may be reconsidering its stance on AI-generated material for its card and board games. However, a company representative clarified that the role was specifically for future video game projects and not for creating final products for Magic or D&D using gen-AI programs.
Wizards’ parent company Hasbro has been investing in internal video game development, following the success of Baldur’s Gate 3 and Monopoly Go. AI has been utilized in the gaming industry for various applications that augment creatives’ efforts rather than replace them. The decision to hire an AI engineer reflects the industry trend of integrating technology into game development processes. The job posting for the AI engineer raised concerns among fans due to Wizards’ history with AI-related controversies, including a recent incident involving an AI-generated image in a social media campaign for Magic.
The trust between Wizards and its core audience has been strained by previous AI-related controversies and decisions, such as attempts to deauthorize and replace the Open Game License (OGL), which is vital for third-party creators of D&D content. Fans are skeptical of Wizards’ gen-AI policies, especially after a statement by Hasbro CEO Chris Cocks discussing potential use cases for AI trained on D&D and Magic’s history. The perception among fans is that AI-generated D&D content may eventually become a reality, leading to concerns about the impact on the gaming experience and creativity within the community.
In celebration of Dungeons & Dragons’ 50th anniversary, Wizards of the Coast has released new books and brand crossovers. The appearance of the archvillain Vecna in the asymmetrical horror game Dead by Daylight and the release of Vecna: Eve of Ruin showcase the ongoing evolution of the game. The current edition of D&D is set to be overhauled later this year with redesigned versions of the core books. A nonfiction book titled The Making of Original Dungeons & Dragons: 1970-1977 is also scheduled for release, exploring the early days of American tabletop gaming and the collaboration between Gary Gygax and Dave Arneson that led to the creation of D&D.
Despite the controversy surrounding the AI engineer job posting, Wizards of the Coast continues to engage with its audience through new releases and crossovers. The company’s commitment to innovation and creative storytelling in the world of Dungeons & Dragons remains evident through its anniversary celebrations and upcoming book releases. As Wizards navigates trust issues with its core audience, it will be essential for the company to communicate its intentions regarding AI-generated content and address concerns to maintain its reputation within the gaming community. The future of D&D and Magic: The Gathering will likely involve a delicate balance between traditional storytelling and emerging technologies.
