Apex Legends’ Final Fantasy 7 Collaboration Sparks Controversy with AI Art Suspicions and Criticism over a Whopping $360 Total Cosmetic Cost
The collaboration between Apex Legends and Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth has stirred dissatisfaction among fans, primarily due to complaints about the high prices of cosmetics and suspicions surrounding the use of AI artwork in promotional materials, sparking discussions online.
Scheduled to commence tomorrow and extend until January 13, the Final Fantasy 7 takeover introduces a unique Limit Break system and various items that players can encounter during matches, such as the iconic Buster Sword and Hop-Up Materia, offering new abilities. However, it’s the cosmetic aspect of the event that has garnered attention.
The Final Fantasy 7-themed event unveils 36 new items available through event packs, including six ‘Iconic’ skins that can be directly purchased. This diverges from the usual structure in Apex events, where an unlockable heirloom item is typically offered once players acquire all other event items, averaging a cost of $160. In this collaboration, the heirloom item is included in event packs, but obtaining it may necessitate purchasing 36 packs, potentially totaling over $360 to secure the Buster Sword heirloom, distinct from the in-game version.
The event introduces a One-Winged Angel-themed death box that unlocks only after obtaining all other items, leading fans to speculate on the substantial investment required. A player has even compiled a list of alternative purchases, including an Xbox Series S and Nintendo Switch, highlighting the hefty financial commitment.
Controversy surrounds EA and Respawn as accusations arise regarding the use of AI in marketing materials for the event. Online shares of promotional images reveal irregularities often associated with AI involvement, though some speculate that these anomalies result from in-game capture processed through an anime filter or similar technology.
The gaming industry has witnessed a growing trend of adopting AI in recent months, with developers embracing the technology while concerns linger among writers and artists about potential job implications. Apex Legends competitor, The Finals, has openly utilized AI for voice work, contributing to ongoing discussions in the gaming community.
The combination of AI skepticism and the substantial costs associated with obtaining Final Fantasy 7 skins in Apex Legends has led to a less favorable sentiment surrounding the popular battle royale. As of now, Respawn has not addressed these concerns.
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