The Pokémon TCG's 2024 art contest sparks AI controversy as The Pokémon Company disqualifies numerous entries suspected of AI generation. The Illustration Contest offers artists the chance to see their work featured on a Pokémon card and win cash prizes.
Pokémon TCG, a beloved card game enjoyed by countless fans for nearly three decades, launched its first official Illustration Contest in 2021. The 2022 contest concluded with an Arcanine illustration winning and gracing an online exhibition. This year's "Magical Pokémon Moments" theme attracted submissions until January 31st. On June 14th, the top 300 quarter-finalists were announced, sparking accusations of AI-generated or enhanced artwork among several entries.
Subsequently, Pokémon TCG disqualified several entries from the 2024 finalists, citing violation of contest rules in an official social media statement. The company confirmed that additional artists would be added to the top 300. While the statement didn't explicitly mention AI, the action follows widespread fan concerns regarding AI-generated quarter-finalist submissions. The inclusion of AI art in such a prestigious contest ignited significant controversy and criticism.
Pokémon TCG Disqualifies AI-Generated Art Contest Entries
Following the disqualification announcement, many fans and artists lauded Pokémon TCG's decision. Fan art is a cornerstone of the Pokémon community, with artists dedicating time and talent to creating impressive works, ranging from humanized Eevee to terrifying Fuecoco interpretations.
The judges' failure to identify the allegedly AI-generated art during the initial selection of the top 300 remains unclear, yet fans are relieved by the subsequent action. The contest offers substantial cash prizes, including $5,000 for first place, and the top three winners will have their artwork featured on promotional cards.
Pokémon has previously employed AI for live match analysis during a Scarlet and Violet tournament. However, the presence of AI-generated art in a high-profile art competition is viewed by many as disrespectful to human artists.
The Pokémon TCG community is incredibly active, with rare cards fetching millions of dollars. Fans are eagerly awaiting the upcoming Pokémon TCG mobile app for a digital card-playing experience.
