Rakuel’s Indie Game Hardest Delisted from Steam Over AI Art Ethics
Developer Rakuel has made the significant decision to remove his free-to-play card game Hardest from Steam, prompted by his girlfriend’s ethical concerns regarding the use of AI-generated art.
This situation marks a rare precedent in the gaming industry, where games are typically delisted due to reasons like expiring licenses, server shutdowns, or broken builds. However, the permanent removal of a game based on a developer’s ethical reassessment influenced by a significant other is unprecedented.
Background of the Game
Hardest, a roguelike card game developed by Eero Laine (known as Rakuel), was launched in July 2025. While the game mechanics were crafted manually, Laine initially utilized generative AI for the card illustrations. He justified this decision as a cost-effective solution for a solo student project.
However, after discussions with his partner, Laine underwent a profound change of heart, viewing the game’s existence as detrimental to the industry. He expressed a strong stance against the use of AI tools, stating, “I have realized the AI is not actually free, and it has a major effect on the economy and environment.” This realization led him to describe the game as “a disgrace to all game makers and players.”
Ethical Considerations in Indie Game Development
Laine’s decision to delist the game instead of patching it with new art reflects the growing complexities of indie game ethics in the age of generative AI. He acknowledged that his initial choice to use AI was influenced by the availability of free tools during his university years, commenting on what he perceived as “brainwashing” among students regarding AI usage.
By choosing to remove the game entirely rather than modifying it, Laine prioritizes ethics over potential profit, a move that is not commonly seen in the industry.
Steam’s AI Content Policy
This individual case unfolds against the backdrop of increasing adoption of AI in game development. Since 2024, Valve, the company behind Steam, has mandated that developers disclose any AI content on their game pages. The number of titles disclosing AI usage has surged dramatically:
- Entirety of 2024: ~1,000 titles
- First 6 months of 2025: ~8,000 titles
This shift indicates that Laine’s initial reliance on AI is becoming more common, despite ongoing ethical debates.
Implications for Players
Players interested in experiencing Hardest have until January 30 to download the game. It operates on a roguelike card game model based on Rock Paper Scissors mechanics, enhanced with chaotic abilities such as time-stopping and tsunamis. Although the game is free-to-play, Laine himself advises against supporting it due to the ethical concerns he now recognizes.
This narrative serves as a microcosm of broader industry shifts, where developers are re-evaluating their strategies amidst the rapid integration of AI technologies. Laine’s example underscores a critical question for gamers: does the method of a game’s creation hold as much weight as its gameplay?
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the game ‘Hardest’ being delisted from Steam?
Developer Eero Laine is removing the game due to ethical concerns about AI-generated art used for card illustrations, which he now considers a “disgrace” to the gaming community.
When will Hardest be removed from Steam?
The game will be delisted on January 30. It remains available for download until that date.
Is Hardest free to play?
Yes, Hardest is a free-to-play roguelike card game, allowing players to try it without financial risk before its removal.
What is Steam’s policy on AI content?
Since 2024, Steam requires developers to disclose the use of generative AI in their games, providing transparency to consumers.
