AI-generated game clones worry independent developers

Independent developers report that AI-generated clones are reproducing their games and discouraging them from sharing prototypes. Ars Technica points to a delayed Steam Next Fest demo as a sign of a growing problem: without showing a game, creators lose sales opportunities; by showing it, they may make copying easier. Sos Sosowski documented several complaints and described the situation as a dilemma for indie developers.

Charlie Greenman, who posted a clone of Holmér’s rotational Tetris game, told 404 Media that he saw nothing wrong with what he did. Some developers argue that greater complexity and originality can protect against superficial copies, while Holmér told 404 Media that reduced engagement with the clones has made him more comfortable taking time to develop his game properly.