Graveyard Keeper 2 art row puts AI fears back in the spotlight
Players questioned the sequel's key art on Reddit, and Lazy Bear co-founder Slava Cherkasov answered directly that Graveyard Keeper 2 is not using AI for its art.
When Graveyard Keeper 2 was announced this week, the response was not all grave-dust and applause. Some players looked at the new key art and immediately suspected generative AI, which sent the sequel’s reveal into a familiar modern-day debate.
One Reddit user, RottenRailing, said the promo art looked “very much like generative AI” and called it an “immediate turn-off.” Another thread from PotatoChaaaaps pointed at what they called the “elephant in the room,” noting that Lazy Bear CTO and co-founder Slava Cherkasov has posted AI-related material on X.
That scrutiny had some context behind it. Cherkasov said on X that “Hordes of AI haters hate full lips and makeup and everything AI.
Okay, Twitter is broken for the next week, I suppose.
Hordes of AI haters hate full lips and makeup and everything AI. The other camp is trying to prove them wrong with reasoning. Dozens of developers trying to jump an a hype train by making DLSS memes that have no sense.
— Slava Cherk (@SlavaCherk) March 17, 2026
The other camp is trying to prove them wrong with reasoning,” and he has also shared Graveyard Keeper-inspired AI images on X.
Tried @Magnific_AI “structure reference” to pixelate my art. With a little bit post-production/pixelization, I’d say it does a great job. pic.twitter.com/55KOPhNQNx
— Slava Cherk (@SlavaCherk) February 28, 2025
In March, he also wrote on X (post) that “Image creation by ChatGPT is fun.”
Image creation by ChatGPT is fun pic.twitter.com/OQabYuV9rv
— Slava Cherk (@SlavaCherk) March 25, 2025
Cherkasov then answered the Reddit discussion directly, saying, “You may not believe me, but we’re not using the AI in Graveyard Keeper 2. Yes, I’m experimenting with every AI model I can find. This is what every tech guy should do now.” He added that the experimental projects he works on are separate from the game, and said he is not handling the art, sound, or music because the team has around eight artists on those jobs.
The reaction from players has stayed split. Some Reddit users said the explanation eased their concerns, while others said they want to see more of the game before trusting the project fully.
If you have thoughts on the AI backlash around Graveyard Keeper 2, share them in the comments. You can also follow us on X, Bluesky, YouTube, Instagram.
Graveyard Keeper II
Developed by Lazy Bear Games
