First Descendant Responds to Fake AI Streamer Ad Allegations

A wave of outrage has engulfed popular looter shooter The First Descendant after players uncovered a series of TikTok ads featuring eerily unconvincing AI-generated “streamers” promoting the game. Shockingly, one ad appeared to clone the likeness of real content creator DanieltheDemon without permission—igniting fierce debates about AI ethics and marketing transparency in gaming.

How Did The First Descendant’s AI Ad Scandal Unfold?

The controversy erupted when Reddit user ‘iHardlytriHard’ compiled multiple TikTok ads for The First Descendant, found within just 15 minutes of scrolling. Four ads showcased AI-generated personas posing as gamers, complete with stilted lip-syncing, robotic voiceovers, and unnatural facial movements. One fake streamer even declared the game “the world’s most popular shooter RPG”—a blatantly exaggerated claim.

Players quickly noted the unethical twist: one AI avatar bore a striking resemblance to popular streamer DanieltheDemon. As the Reddit thread exploded with over 2,400 upvotes, gamers slammed developer Nexon for bypassing real creators. “Why not hire actual streamers?” demanded one user. Others warned the deceptive tactic could backfire, damaging player trust in a game already grappling with microtransaction criticisms.

Nexon Responds to AI-Generated Ad Allegations

Facing mounting pressure, Nexon issued a statement acknowledging “inappropriate” ads but deflected responsibility to TikTok’s systems. The company claimed the videos stemmed from a “Creative Challenge” program where creators voluntarily submit content for ads. TikTok’s verification process allegedly screens for copyright violations before approval.

“We are conducting a thorough joint investigation with TikTok to determine the facts,” Nexon stated. However, the explanation failed to clarify whether Nexon reviewed submissions pre-launch or how the DanieltheDemon doppelgänger slipped through. Industry analysts note the incident highlights poor oversight, with Dr. Evelyn Richards (Tech Ethics Watch) stating, “Synthetic influencers risk legal pitfalls—especially when mirroring real people without consent” (GamesIndustry.biz, 2024).

The backlash underscores gaming’s urgent need for transparent AI policies. As players demand authenticity, studios must prioritize ethical marketing or risk alienating their audience. Share your thoughts on social media using #NoFakeStreamers.

Must Know

Q: What is The First Descendant?
A: The First Descendant is a free-to-play looter shooter by Nexon, released in July 2024. Players battle aliens using customizable characters and cooperative gameplay across PC and consoles.

Q: How were the AI ads discovered?
A: A Reddit user found multiple AI-generated ads on TikTok within minutes, showing “streamers” with unnatural movements and voices. Evidence spread rapidly across gaming forums.

Q: Did Nexon create the fake streamer ads?
A: Nexon claims they were user-submitted via TikTok’s “Creative Challenge” program. Their involvement in oversight remains unclear amid an ongoing investigation.

Q: Is using AI streamers illegal?
A: It can violate laws if replicating real people’s likenesses without consent (e.g., personality rights). General AI avatars face fewer restrictions but risk consumer distrust.

Q: Has DanieltheDemon commented?
A: As of publication, DanieltheDemon hasn’t addressed the controversy. Legal experts suggest he could pursue action if his likeness was used unauthorized.

Q: Are other games using AI marketing?
A: Yes—studios increasingly deploy AI for trailers and social content. Backlash against The First Descendant may force broader industry transparency.