Sega Confirms Generative AI Used in Crazy Taxi: World Tour
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- Sega confirmed via a statement to Game Informer that generative AI was used to support development of background assets in Crazy Taxi: World Tour, with all AI-generated assets subject to review by the development team.
- Sega emphasized that no AI was used 'in reference to the performers in the game,' directly addressing one of the most visible fan concerns after the game's Xbox Games Showcase reveal.
- Sega described generative AI as an 'optional support tool' meant to let developers 'focus more on creative tasks' and 'deliver better games to consumers,' language that closely mirrors the disclaimer posted on the game's Steam page.
- Fans reacted with frustration online after spotting the Steam disclaimer, with social media posts cited by Game Informer criticizing the use of generative AI assets in a franchise revival.
- Game Informer scheduled a follow-up interview with the game's lead producer for further clarification on the studio's AI use, linked in an update to the original article.
Why it matters: Sega's response positions generative AI as a tightly scoped 'support tool' limited to background assets with human review — a framing the studio will likely reuse for future titles as the industry's AI debate intensifies. By separating 'background assets' from 'performers,' Sega draws a line it can defend in future disclosures, but the fan backlash shows that line may not satisfy players who reject AI involvement in any part of a game's production.
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