Don’t like AI in games? Crimson Desert studio Pearl Abyss ain’t care: it’s expanding AI use ‘throughout our entire development pipeline’

Pearl Abyss says it is expanding the use of AI across its game development pipeline, citing faster work and improved quality. The move follows criticism after players found AI-generated art in Crimson Desert, renewing questions about the studio’s transparency and how AI fits into game-making.

The studio says AI helps test design concepts, automate repetitive tasks, support content creation and optimise testing, while its developers remain responsible for gameplay and content. It previously said AI had been used for some 2D props early in Crimson Desert’s development, which were meant to be replaced after review. Pearl Abyss also said DokeV is planned for release in the second half of 2028.