Pearl Abyss to conduct “comprehensive audit” after AI-generated art found in Crimson Desert

Crimson Desert developer Pearl Abyss will conduct a “comprehensive audit” of its in-game assets following the “unintentional” inclusion of AI-generated art.

As IGN reports, players shared potential AI-generated paintings and signs they discovered on Reddit.

In a statement, Pearl Abyss confirmed that “some 2D visual props were created as part of early-stage iteration using experimental AI generative tools.”

However, it clarified that these assets were meant 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.”

“Following reports from our community, we have identified that some of these assets were unintentionally included in the final release. This is not in line with our internal standards, and we take full responsibility for it.”

The non-disclosure of AI art violates Steam’s AI content policy. Crimson Desert’s Steam page did not disclose this before Pearl Abyss addressed the situation. This has now been rectified.

“We acknowledge that we should have clearly disclosed our use of AI,” the developer wrote.

“While these tools were primarily used during early production, with the expectation that these assets would be replaced prior to release, we recognise that this does not excuse the lack of transparency. We sincerely apologise for these oversights.”

It continued: “We are currently conducting a comprehensive audit of all in-game assets and are taking steps to replace any affected content. Updated assets will be rolled out in upcoming patches. In parallel, we are reviewing and strengthening our internal processes to ensure greater transparency and consistency in how we communicate with players moving forward.”

Crimson Desert launched last Thursday (March 19), and has divided critics. In our critical consensus, some praised the RPG’s combat, while others found its story underbaked and gameplay overwhelming.