I want to start by saying I’m genuinely sorry. I understand why people feel disappointed, frustrated, or let down by this, and those feelings are completely valid. We publicly committed to using real artists for Creator Cards, and while that was true for the entire project except this one card, that exception still matters. Especially in a project built on trust, creators, and transparency, even a single miss like this can feel like a breach, and I hear that clearly.

To be fully transparent, this card was a last-minute decision made under pressure after a creator pulled out on the day final designs were being approved with the printer. Instead of slowing things down, delaying the card, or bringing the decision to the community for feedback or a poll, I made a rushed call to use a poorly executed AI character as a placeholder solution. That was my mistake. It wasn’t aligned with the standards we set, the values we talked about publicly, or the expectations many of you reasonably had.

What I regret most isn’t just the use of AI itself, but the way the decision was handled. You deserved better communication, better judgment, and the chance to be part of that call, especially given how strongly many in this community feel about supporting real artists and creators. This wasn’t about trying to hide anything or mislead anyone, but intent doesn’t erase impact, and the impact here is real.

Going forward, I’m taking this as a hard lesson. Situations like this should be paused, discussed openly, or put to the community, even if that means delays or harder conversations. Creator Cards exists because of trust, collaboration, and shared values, and I take responsibility for falling short of those in this moment. Thank you to everyone who spoke up, asked questions, or expressed disappointment. You’re not going mad, and your voices are being heard.

- Cubeyy