Indie Game Awards Rescind Wins for Clair Obscur Over AI Use

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, the critically acclaimed RPG from French studio Sandfall Interactive, has faced backlash after the Indie Game Awards rescinded its wins for Game of the Year and Best Debut Indie Game due to the confirmed use of generative AI during development. The decision, announced on the day of the 2025 ceremony, came despite the game's widespread success and initial eligibility confirmation from the studio.

The awards body revealed that Sandfall Interactive representatives had assured organizers during the nomination process that no generative AI was involved in the production of the title. However, this changed when details from an earlier interview with Spanish outlet El Pais resurfaced, prompting Sandfall to confirm on the ceremony day that AI tools had been used briefly for placeholder artwork. According to the Indie Game Awards FAQ, "In light of Sandfall Interactive confirming the use of gen AI art in production on the day of the Indie Game Awards 2025 premiere, this does disqualify Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 from its nomination." The organization emphasized its strict policy against any generative AI in development, regardless of whether the assets...