Neverness to Everness developers confirm AI use after Ironmouse criticism

Neverness to Everness developer Hotta Studio has responded to criticism over the reported use of AI-generated assets in the upcoming game after online backlash intensified following comments from VTuber Ironmouse.

The controversy began after players shared comparisons on social media claiming certain scenes and promotional materials appeared to contain AI-generated imagery.

One viral post alleged similarities between a game scene and visuals from Makoto Shinkai’s anime film Weathering with You, while another highlighted unusual distortions in an in-game television advertisement.

The discussion gained wider attention after Ironmouse publicly criticised the developers during a livestream and said she ended her sponsorship arrangement with the game.

According to Ironmouse, her team had been assured that there was “no AI anywhere” in the project before she agreed to promote it.

In response, Hotta Studio released a public statement acknowledging that AI-assisted tools had been used during parts of development.

“Thank you for the feedback. It matters to us. Neverness to Everness is built on human creativity. The characters, stories, and world you experience are the work of artists, writers, and designers,” the statement said.

The studio added, “AI-assisted tools were used only on a small number of background and environmental assets, not on the characters or stories that define this game.”

Hotta Studio also confirmed that some of the assets highlighted by players were being reviewed and revised. The statement specifically mentioned “Clear Skies in Summer” and “Pink Paws Heist” as examples currently being reworked.

“We’re already reviewing and reworking the flagged assets,” the developers said. “Your feedback shapes this game, so please keep it coming. We’re listening, and we’re committed to delivering the quality you deserve.”