Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 was at the center of controversy after it lost the awards that it had won at the Indie Game Awards. The organizers of the event decided to withdraw the prizes after they confirmed the use of generative artificial intelligence during its development.
The measure had a full impact on the independent event, since the game had been distinguished as Game of the Year and Best Debut. The disqualification took place after the gala, when it was verified that the studio had violated the rules accepted at the time of the nomination.
The official decision of the Indie Game Awards
According to Six One Indie, organizer of the event, the infraction was detected once the voting had ended and with the ceremony already recorded. The statement was published on Saturday afternoon and confirmed that the information submitted during registration did not match reality.
According to the official text, Sandfall Interactive had assured that generative AI was not used at any stage of development. However, the studio itself confirmed its use on the very day of the premiere of the Indie Game Awards 2025.
What the rules say about AI
The organizers recalled that they maintain a strict stance on the use of gen AI in the nominated games. This condition is mandatory both for evaluation and for participation in the ceremony.
