
Catly Developer Refutes Claims of Generative AI and Blockchain Use | Image Source: www.ign.com
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 16, 2024 — The developer of the recently announced virtual pet simulator game Catly has firmly denied allegations that the game’s trailer and promotional materials were produced using generative AI technology. The controversy emerged following Catly’s debut at The Game Awards, with critics speculating that the hyperrealistic visuals in the game’s trailer and marketing materials were AI-generated. However, developer SuperAuthenti maintains that no such technology was used in its creation or promotion.
According to IGN, a PR representative authorized to speak on behalf of SuperAuthenti stated that neither the game’s trailer nor the game itself involved generative AI. The representative expressed surprise over the speculations and clarified,
“We do not think there are any existing AI tools that can produce a video like that. Industry experts have echoed this opinion.”
In support of this claim, the developer shared a version of the trailer containing in-progress shots interwoven with the final visuals, providing evidence of traditional production processes.
Hyperrealistic Cats Raise Questions
Speculations surrounding Catly began immediately after its trailer premiered. The video showcases hyperrealistic cats with brightly colored fur, bounding through fantasy landscapes and interacting with a human character wearing elaborate high-fashion outfits. The art style, featuring highly detailed visuals, raised eyebrows among critics who argued that it bore similarities to generative AI-produced imagery. As noted by IGN, such hyperrealism is currently beyond the capabilities of existing generative AI technology without noticeable imperfections, such as artifacting or inconsistencies.
In addition to denying the use of AI, SuperAuthenti also addressed rumors regarding blockchain technology. The spokesperson categorically stated,
“Our company/project has never issued any blockchain currency and any NFTs. Our company does not and has never owned any blockchain currency and NFTs.”
Furthermore, the game is being developed using Unreal Engine 5, with developers leveraging advanced software for hyperrealistic fur and hair rendering.
Controversial Promotional Materials
While SuperAuthenti’s denial appears credible for the trailer and in-game assets, questions remain about some promotional images and marketing copy. According to IGN, the game’s description on Steam raised eyebrows with its unconventional phrasing: “A Cat Open World, with Beautiful Cats. Hyperrealism, Actions, Cuddle, Speed, Islands, Fashion, Dreams, Snow, Robots, Plants — all with and via Cats.” Observers flagged this as awkward and possibly machine-generated.
Critics also pointed to anomalies in some of the promotional images. For instance, screenshots appeared to contain odd details, such as disproportionate paws and inconsistent facial features that are often associated with AI-generated imagery. Certain promotional assets, which have since been removed from Catly’s official website, further fueled skepticism regarding their authenticity.
Industry Figures Address the Controversy
Adding complexity to the situation, industry figures with ties to Catly have weighed in on the controversy. As per IGN, the game’s Steam page featured glowing endorsements, including one from Thomas Vu, producer of League of Legends and Arcane. Vu, however, is also a known web3 investor, which intensified speculation about potential blockchain involvement.
Conversely, another prominent figure, Ben Brode, creator of Hearthstone and Marvel Snap, publicly refuted any links between Catly and generative AI or web3. Writing on Bluesky, Brode clarified,
“I saw 20 [minutes] or so of gameplay footage a few months back and thought it looked cool, so they asked me for a quote.”
Brode added that his interest in the game was genuine and not influenced by blockchain or AI considerations.
Generative AI’s Growing Role in Gaming
The Catly controversy highlights broader concerns about generative AI’s increasing presence in the gaming industry. As noted by IGN, companies like Activision have faced similar scrutiny in recent months. In late 2023, Activision reportedly sold an AI-generated cosmetic item for Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3, sparking backlash among fans. Additionally, EA publicly stated in September 2023 that AI forms “the very core” of its business strategy moving forward.
As generative AI tools grow more sophisticated, distinguishing between human-created and AI-generated content becomes increasingly challenging. Developers face mounting pressure to provide transparency regarding the use of AI in their creative processes. For SuperAuthenti, the burden of proof now rests on their ability to convincingly address lingering doubts about Catly’s promotional materials.
Unanswered Questions and Future Developments
While SuperAuthenti has firmly denied the use of AI and blockchain in both the trailer and the game itself, it has yet to fully address questions surrounding its promotional materials. According to IGN, the studio did not respond to inquiries about inconsistencies in the Steam page images and website assets. The lingering ambiguity leaves room for continued debate as fans and critics alike await more information.
For now, Catly remains slated for release in 2025. The controversy surrounding its development serves as a reminder of the growing tension between emerging technologies like generative AI and the gaming industry’s demand for transparency and authenticity. Whether or not Catly ultimately lives up to its promises, its debut has already sparked important discussions about the role of AI and blockchain in game creation and promotion.
As generative AI tools continue to advance, similar controversies are likely to arise, challenging both developers and players to discern the boundaries between human creativity and artificial production. For SuperAuthenti, the road ahead involves building trust with its audience through greater clarity and openness about its development process.