A recent webcomic has stirred up controversy among readers as it is alleged that the artist behind it made use of artificial intelligence (AI) to trace scenes from popular anime series Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation and the movie Guardians of the Galaxy. The webcomic in question, titled The Knight King, has garnered attention for all the wrong reasons, currently holding a dismal rating of 1.91 out of 10, as reported by Manga Mogura RE and South Korean news site Nate.
Eagle-eyed readers were quick to spot similarities between certain panels in The Knight King and scenes from Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation. Two specific instances caught their attention: one depicting the main character, Rudeus, reincarnating into a baby and another showing his mother’s heartwarming smile directed at him. These panels seemed to be directly lifted from the popular anime series, raising suspicions of tracing with the aid of AI.

To make matters more perplexing, it appears that a character from another franchise, Groot from Guardians of the Galaxy, has found its way into the webcomic. This unexpected crossover has left readers perplexed and further fueled the claims of unoriginality and lack of artistic integrity.
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The utilization of AI in creative works is a topic that has been widely discussed in recent years. While AI can offer numerous benefits and possibilities for artists, it also raises questions about the originality and authenticity of the final product. Tracing or copying content, even with the assistance of AI, is generally frowned upon within the artistic community as it undermines the creative process and diminishes the value of the work.

The controversy surrounding The Knight King serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting intellectual property and maintaining artistic integrity. Artists are encouraged to draw inspiration from existing works but should strive to create something unique and original. Similarly, readers and consumers play a crucial role in holding artists accountable and supporting those who prioritize creativity and innovation.
As the discussion surrounding AI and its impact on creative industries continues, it is essential for both artists and audiences to engage in meaningful dialogue and explore ethical guidelines that can shape the responsible use of AI in art. Only through open conversations and collective efforts can we ensure the preservation of artistic integrity in an increasingly technologically driven world.
Source: CBR