The Controversial Announcement by Guild Esports
Excitement filled the air as fans of competitive Apex Legends and followers of the Guild Esports organization awaited the announcement of the Australian roster from Serenity. However, the usage of AI imagery in the team’s introduction has confused and bewildered many supporters.
Fans react to AI-generated images
In the announcement article, viewers immediately saw what appeared to be AI-generated photos of Apex Legends characters Bangalore, Wattson, and Horizon. These drawings have little resemblance to the characters’ in-game appearances, with some fans comparing the alleged Horizon image to Tracer from Overwatch.
Criticism of Guild Esports
The revelation provoked a flood of outrage and scorn from supporters of the esports group created by soccer legend David Beckham. Beckham, who co-owns the Major League Soccer team Inter Miami, saw his soccer team’s value skyrocket in 2023 after signing the renowned Lionel Messi. This increase in value also affected Messi’s co-owned esports organization, KRÜ Esports.
Many replies emphasized the availability of assets and photographs of the actual characters, as well as the perceived lack of effort or talent in not hiring graphic designers for the announcement.
Fan Outrage and the Esports World Cup
Some fans vented their wrath against Guild Esports because of their involvement with the Saudi-backed Esports World Cup. Guild is one of 30 teams participating in the Esports World Cup Foundation’s Club Support Program, which provides direct financial support. However, doubts linger among fans about Guild’s commitment to Apex Legends beyond the conclusion of the Esports World Cup this summer.
In the face of public criticism, Guild Esports has remained mute, and attention has diverted away from the roster additions. Notably, the Serenity players finished 11th in the ALGS Split One Playoffs in May.