Microsoft has come under fire after an employee used an AI-generated image to advertise a graphics design role for the Xbox team, just weeks after the company laid off thousands of workers in its gaming division. The image, which clearly showed a glaring flaw with the computer screen facing backward, was posted on LinkedIn by Xbox producer Mike Matsel. It quickly sparked criticism from professionals across the tech and gaming industries who questioned both the timing and the judgment behind the post.
The ad was intended to promote a new opening on the Xbox graphics team, but instead of showcasing the studio’s creative strengths, it became a flashpoint for the ongoing debate about the overuse of AI-generated content in creative industries. Developers and artists pointed out that using AI-generated visuals for a job that requires human design expertise was not only ironic but also deeply insensitive, given the recent layoffs.
Critics were especially vocal on social media. One Ubisoft employee called the post “embarrassing,” noting the absurdity of using a backward-facing monitor in an image meant to attract visual designers. A Meta staffer added, “Posting this just days after Microsoft laid off 9,000 people in game development, and using an AI-generated image… please, read the room.”
The timing of the ad couldn’t have been worse. In late June, Microsoft cut thousands of jobs across its Xbox and Activision Blizzard divisions, impacting multiple studios and long-standing employees. Many in the industry felt the use of cheap, low-quality AI art in hiring posts devalues the work of professional artists, many of whom are now looking for jobs.
Despite the backlash, Microsoft has not yet issued an official statement regarding the post or the criticism. However, the situation highlights broader concerns about the growing use of generative AI in roles traditionally filled by skilled human creators, especially when companies are downsizing.
Key Points from the Controversy:
- A Microsoft employee posted a job ad for Xbox using AI-generated art.
- The image included a clear error: the monitor screen faced backward.
- The post came just weeks after Microsoft laid off 9,000 gaming staff.
- Developers and artists criticized the insensitivity and irony of the move.
- The incident has reignited debates about AI use vs. human creativity in design roles.
