Krafton’s Bold AI-First Transformation
In a surprising strategic shift, Krafton—the South Korean publisher behind Subnautica and PUBG: Battlegrounds—has rebranded itself as an “AI-first” company, prioritizing artificial intelligence in game development and beyond. CEO CH Kim announced the pivot in an internal memo, declaring, “We are no longer just a gaming company; we are an AI-powered creative studio.”
The move aligns with industry trends, as giants like Microsoft and Ubisoft invest heavily in AI for dynamic gameplay, procedural content, and virtual influencers. Krafton’s plans include AI-driven narratives, real-time story adjustments, and virtual world-building.
Voluntary Resignation Policy: Graceful Exit or Talent Drain?
Accompanying the AI shift is a voluntary resignation program, offering financial incentives for employees who leave. While details remain undisclosed, reports suggest severance pay, extended benefits, and stock options.
Reactions are divided:
– Supporters argue it respects employees who disagree with the new direction.
– Critics call it a “soft layoff,” fearing the loss of veteran game developers.
An anonymous Krafton employee told NextMinuteNews, “Many of us joined to make games, not train AI models. This feels like pushing out dissenters.”
AI in Gaming: Innovation vs. Controversy
Krafton’s gamble highlights AI’s dual-edged impact:
✅ Pros: Faster development, personalized experiences, and scalable content.
❌ Cons: Job displacement fears and skepticism over AI’s creative limits (e.g., backlash against AI art in Wuthering Waves).
Upcoming projects include an AI-narrative game where choices reshape the story in real time—a potential industry game-changer.
What’s Next for Krafton?
The company is aggressively hiring AI talent and partnering with startups. Its long-term vision extends to metaverse ecosystems, signaling ambitions beyond gaming.
Will Krafton’s AI pivot succeed, or will it alienate its core audience? The industry watches closely.
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