Key information
During RuneFest 2026, Jagex faced backlash after fans identified generative AI errors in a promotional trailer for the upcoming Dragon Slayer 2 quest. The video featured glaring anomalies, including a character with six fingers and a knight wearing sneakers resembling Air Jordans, contradicting the company's recent public commitment to avoid using AI in its creative assets.
Jagex subsequently removed the trailer and launched an urgent investigation. The company stated that the video was produced by a trusted external partner who had explicitly confirmed that generative AI would not be utilized. Jagex apologized for the oversight, acknowledging that the presence of six fingers on a hand is difficult to justify.
This incident follows a similar controversy involving a collaboration with 100 Thieves, where a shirt design was found to be AI-generated. Jagex reiterated its stance that it does not use generative AI to replace human artists or developers in its games, marketing, or merchandise. The company admitted these events highlight flaws in its internal review processes.
To address these concerns, Jagex plans to overhaul its review procedures following RuneFest. The developer intends to work with community creators to ensure the Dragon Slayer 2 content meets expected quality standards. Meanwhile, some players have expressed skepticism, alleging that similar AI-generated styles have appeared in promotional materials for Dragonwilds over the past year.
