Ubisoft Removes AI-Generated Image from Anno 117 After Player Backlash

Ubisoft Removes AI-Generated Image from Anno 117 After It Slips Through Review Process

Ubisoft has found itself at the center of a new conversation about AI use in video games after confirming that an AI-generated image mistakenly appeared in Anno 117: Pax Romana. The company announced that will remove the image and replace it with a corrected version in the game’s upcoming 1.3 patch. The situation began when players noticed strange visual details in a piece of artwork from the game and suspected that it had been generated by an AI tool rather than created by a human artist.

The discovery quickly spread online, especially among fans of the Anno franchise, which is known as for its rich world-building and detailed visual environments.Odd character proportiones, unusual shadows, and stranges environmental elementes were among the details that raised red flags.

Ubisoft Confirms the Image Was AI-Generated

In an official statement, Ubisoft said:

“This image was a placeholder asset that unintentionally slipped through our review process. The final image is attached here and will replace the current version of this artwork with the upcoming 1.3 patch.”

The company emphasized that the image was not meant to represent the quality or artistic direction of the final game. It explained that AI technology is occasionally used during early development stages, but only for rapid prototyping, ideation, and exploration—not for final in-game content.

Why Ubisoft Uses AI Tools

Ubisoft further elaborated on its use of AI within the development pipeline. The studio highlighted that Anno 117: Pax Romana is the largest and most ambitious entry in the long-running series. To support such an expansive project, they have assembled the biggest art team ever for an Anno title. According to Ubisoft:

“With Anno 117: Pax Romana being our most ambitious Anno yet, we’ve assembled the largest team of artists ever for the franchise. To help meet the project’s unique scope, they use AI tools for iterations, prototyping, and exploration. Every element players will experience in the final game reflects the team’s craft, artistry, and creative vision.”

In other words, while AI tools are present in the development process, Ubisoft insists they are only meant to enhance early creativity, not replace their human artists. This mirrors a growing trend in the video game industry, where AI is increasingly used for pre-production workflows but remains controversial among players who prefer human-created art and storytelling.

How This Affects Anno 117 Moving Forward

Ubisoft has acted quickly to correct the mistake. The cleaned-up version of the artwork—created by the game’s art team—will be added in patch 1.3. The studio appears committed to ensuring that the final game meets the high visual standards players expect.

Fans of the series are hopeful that this is simply a one-time oversight. Anno 117: Pax Romana has already drawn excitement for its ambitious Roman-era setting, expansive city-building mechanics, and historical depth. Ubisoft’s reassurance that the final visuals are crafted by skilled artists aims to restore player confidence.

Looking Ahead: AI in Game Development

This incident highlights the ongoing conversation about how AI should ben used in creative fields, especially in video game development. While AI tools can support rapid creativity and lighten workloads during early production, gamers care deeply about artistry and authenticity.

Ubisoft’s transparency—acknowledging the mistake and explaining its AI use—may help reduce misunderstandings. For now, the studio remains firm that human creativity is  the center of Anno 117’s final experience.