Arcane’s highly anticipated second season is nearing its conclusion, with the final episodes set to release soon. While fans eagerly await the culmination of Jinx and Vi’s story, a controversy surrounding an image suspected of being AI-generated briefly overshadowed the excitement. This incident sparked a discussion about the use of AI in animation and Riot Games’ commitment to traditional artistry.
The use of AI in creative fields has been a contentious issue, with many animators expressing concerns about its potential impact on their profession. Recent initiatives and collectives formed by anime creators highlight the growing resistance against AI’s encroachment into animation, voice acting, and other aspects of the industry. This context makes the Arcane incident particularly relevant.
The controversial image, since removed by Netflix.
Riot Games Rejects AI in Arcane Production
The controversy erupted when fans noticed a promotional image for Arcane Season 2 that appeared to be extended using AI. This sparked immediate backlash, with fans raising concerns about the potential use of AI in the show’s production. Riot Games Brand Lead, Alex Shahmir, swiftly addressed the situation, assuring fans that AI was not used in the series. He confirmed the image was a mistake and has since been removed. Shahmir’s statement underscored Riot Games’ commitment to honoring the work of the artists involved in creating Arcane. His tweet read:
“Appreciate you bringing this to our attention. We have a strict stance of no AI for anything relating to Arcane cause it’s disrespectful to the incredible artists who worked on the show. This image was a mistake and has since been removed. TY again for calling it out.”
Arcane Season 2: A Triumphant Return?
Arcane’s second season has garnered significant praise, with many critics and fans lauding the quality of the animation and storytelling. The first six episodes have been particularly well-received, building upon the success of the first season and exceeding expectations. Despite some concerns about the impending finale, there is palpable excitement for the future of the League of Legends animated universe.
The Future of League of Legends Animation
While the second season marks the end of this particular chapter in Arcane, the future holds more stories from the League of Legends universe. The final episodes of Season 2 are set to release on November 23rd, concluding the three-part release structure. Arcane’s high production value, evident in its stunning visuals, is a testament to the dedication of Studio Fortiche. The series stands as a benchmark for animated storytelling and sets a high bar for future projects. For ongoing updates and discussions about the League of Legends universe, follow Team Anime and Team Gaming.
