As a non-artist, I'm hesitant to say what's real artistry and what's not, but I definitely agree that there's a more creative component to work of a creative director defining the art style vs. an entry-level artist building assets in that style.
Still, I think one of the things that will be lost is the ability of those entry-level artists to learn and develop so they can get to the point of being qualified for the really creative art jobs. My feeling is that these AI tools will really entrench the existing art-director-level folks in AAA gaming in their roles, and the only path to break into this kind of game art design will be by creating your own games entirely.
As for the sweatshop conditions, I totally agree - the gaming industry is notorious for being awful to its employees, and it's good that that will likely end. On the other hand, is it a plus to end that by just eliminating the jobs entirely? I dunno.
Still, I think one of the things that will be lost is the ability of those entry-level artists to learn and develop so they can get to the point of being qualified for the really creative art jobs. My feeling is that these AI tools will really entrench the existing art-director-level folks in AAA gaming in their roles, and the only path to break into this kind of game art design will be by creating your own games entirely.
As for the sweatshop conditions, I totally agree - the gaming industry is notorious for being awful to its employees, and it's good that that will likely end. On the other hand, is it a plus to end that by just eliminating the jobs entirely? I dunno.