Developer pulls AI-made Hardest from Steam, calling it a ‘disgrace’
Developer Eero Laine has announced the removal of his roguelike game Hardest from Steam. The title, which used AI-generated art and music, will be delisted on 31 July 2025. Laine now calls the game a 'disgrace' and has shifted his stance on AI tools after ethical concerns came to light.
Laine originally created Hardest using generative AI, taking advantage of free university resources. He coded the game himself but relied on AI for visuals and sound. Since its July release, the game has held a 'Mixed' rating on Steam.
His perspective changed after discussions with his girlfriend of one month. She helped him recognise the broader economic and environmental costs of AI technology. Laine now argues that AI is not free and that its development benefits only a few companies at society’s expense. He believes Hardest could indirectly support AI firms he sees as harmful. Calling the game’s current version unethical, he has decided to pull it from sale. Laine plans to rework and rerelease the title later—this time with original, human-made assets.
Hardest will remain available for purchase until 31 July 2025. After that, the game will no longer appear on Steam. Laine’s decision reflects a growing debate over AI’s role in creative industries and its wider societal impact.
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