It turns out that player suspicions over Crimson Desert‘s alleged use of generative AI for in-game art were dead on.
In a statement released on social media, developer Pearl Abyss responded to the allegations and confirmed it used generative AI for some 2D assets. It also said the AI-created assets were not meant to remain in the final version of the game.
“During development, some 2D visual props were created as part of early-stage iteration using experimental AI generative tools. These assets helped us rapidly explore tone and atmosphere in the earlier phases of production,” reads the statement.
“However, our intention has always been for any such assets to be replaced, following final work and review by our art and development teams, with work that aligned with our quality standards and creative direction.”
Pearl Abyss admitted it should have disclosed its use of AI, apologized for the use of AI-created assets, and said it is auditing all in-game assets. It also said the assets will be replaced in upcoming patches.
“While these tools were primarily used during early production, with the expectation that these assets would be replaced prior to release, we recognize that this does not excuse the lack of transparency. We sincerely apologize for these oversights,” reads the statement.
Pearl Abyss isn’t the first developer to admit its use of generative AI during the development process. Ubisoft and Sandfall Interactive also confirmed they used AI for their respective games, Anno 117 and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33.
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