Indie publisher alleges TikTok is AI-generating offensive ads using its characters and they can't make it stop: 'Does TikTok want me to be grateful for the mistreatment of my company?'
PC Gamer
by Justin Wagner February 22, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Indie game publisher Finji has accused TikTok of generating offensive ads using its characters and art without consent, leveraging generative AI to create altered versions that include racist and sexualized caricatures. The company, known for games like *Night in the Woods* and *Tunic*, claims fans have shared screenshots of these AI-altered ads, which differ significantly from Finji’s intended designs. While TikTok initially denied using AI for such ads, they later acknowledged the issue as part of an initiative aimed at simplifying ad creation for advertisers, offering Finji the option to opt out.
Finji CEO Rebekah Saltsman expressed frustration over TikTok’s handling of the situation, highlighting a lack of coherent response and accountability. She questioned the platform's judgment, stating it appeared to have a “profound void where common sense and business sense usually reside.” The incident raises concerns about the potential misuse of AI in advertising, particularly for smaller businesses like Finji, which rely on their intellectual property for brand identity.
This issue matters to gamers and game developers because it underscores the challenges faced by indie studios in protecting their IP on major platforms. The misuse of generative AI not only risks damaging a company’s reputation but also raises ethical questions about content creation and consent. For gamers, it highlights the importance of supporting indie developers whose creative vision can be compromised without proper platform oversight.
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Originally published on PC Gamer on 2/22/2026