Generative AI and Why Respecting Creative IP Still Matters

Generative AI has become one of the biggest talking points in the creative world. It can create images in seconds and produce content at a speed that would have been unthinkable a few years ago. While this might sound like a win for businesses looking to move quickly, there is a serious issue that cannot be ignored. Much of this AI is trained on artwork from real artists and designers who never gave permission for their creations to be used in the first place.

The Problem with AI That Uses Unlicensed Art

Most AI systems learn by analysing huge collections of existing images. Many of these images were created by talented individuals who spent countless hours shaping characters, painting scenes and building worlds. When their work is scraped into an AI model without their consent, it removes their control over how that work is used. It also allows businesses to profit from results that would not exist without the original artists.

This is not only unfair. It is disrespectful. Copyright exists to protect creators and to make sure they are recognised and rewarded. When AI tools bypass that protection, the original artists are pushed aside so that others can make a quick profit.

How This Affects Games and the Framing Media Industry

The gaming industry is especially vulnerable to this. Game art is distinctive, instantly recognisable and often deeply personal to the players who love it. When businesses use AI to generate artwork that imitates a style or borrows from a game without proper permission, the result harms both the original creators and the studios behind them.

For companies in the framing media industry, this is even more important. Fans want something that celebrates the games they love, and they trust that the products they buy are created with respect for the original work. Cutting corners with unlicensed AI output breaks that trust.

Why Frame-A-Game Takes a Stand

At Frame-A-Game, we work directly with developers and some of the biggest studios in the world. We see the passion, skill and sheer effort that artists pour into every detail of their games. We believe that this deserves respect.

We do not support the use of generative AI to replicate or borrow from copyrighted work without permission. We do not believe in building products from art that was never authorised for commercial use. The creative community deserves better and we choose to stand with them.

If you spot something that looks like it has been lifted directly from a game, there is a good chance it was created using AI. When you are buying anything inspired by a game you love, always check for an Officially Licensed badge or similar proof of permission. If it is not there, do not buy it. Choosing not to support businesses that profit from someone else’s hard work helps protect the artists and studios who deserve proper credit.

Our 'Inspired By' Range

This is exactly why we created our Inspired By Range. It gives players and collectors beautiful backgrounds that complement the games they love, without copying them and without using unlicensed AI material. Every design is sourced correctly. Every image is cleared and paid for. Every piece is created with full respect for the artists behind the games.

You get a high quality product that celebrates your favourite titles and the people who brought them to life.

Looking Ahead

Generative AI is not going away, and it can be a helpful tool when used responsibly. The key is simple. Consent, clarity and respect. Artists deserve to have a say in how their work is used. Studios deserve protection for their IP. Fans deserve products that honour the games they love.

At Frame-A-Game, we are proud to do things the right way. Respect for artists is at the heart of everything we create, and that will never change.