The debate surrounding generative AI, not to be confused with more simplistic game AI (such as NPCs that react to players), has reached a fever pitch in recent weeks. After Larian confirmed its use of genAI in the development process for Divinitythe backlash saw CEO Swen Vincke schedule a developer AMA in 2026 to discuss how the team is using it. At the same time, Expedition 33 had its GOTY award stripped from the Indie Game Awards due to its genAI use, and even Blue Prince got caught astray when people accused it of using genAI (it didn't). In the midst of this ongoing controversy, it is worth pointing out that most wanted game on Steam comes from a self-proclaimed “AI-First” company.
No doubt the genAI debate will continue in the coming weeks and months. One of the main reasons for its increasing use is its supposed ability to speed up the development process in an age where video games take longer to develop than ever before; in other words, many studios essentially see it as a shortcut to a very real challenge. Meanwhile, Larian's Vincke said he saw no faster productivity in use in the Bloomberg interview, but other companies are doubling down, if not tripling, on the technology. Krafton recently declared itself an “AI-First company”, and the most wish-listed game on Steam is published by it: Subnautica 2.
Krafton calls for forensic investigation as Subnautica 2 lawsuit heats up
Krafton files a motion to compel a forensic investigation as the trial over Subnautica 2 and the ousting of Unknown World's leadership continues.
Between the genAI controversy, the controversial firings at developer Unknown Worlds Entertainment by Krafton, the various problems with genAI usage, and so many other fine points that will affect Subnautica 2I don't even know where to start. But I guess I'll start where every video game should: the player. In fact, most gamers won't know of any game that uses genAI unless the developers just do it out of tact. That secrecy and “pace” are required is a problem in itself. Misinformation is everywhere, but the lack of being informed is a whole different beast.
GenAI relies on you to ignore conditions that could destroy the industry
Not to sound the alarm about anything, but continued and high use of genAI will erode consumer confidence, change and minimize publishing methods, dehumanize the entire process, permanently alter and fundamentally create a new market, and cause waning interest in gaming PCs and consoles (with the latter exacerbated by the ongoing crises of RAM and affordability). Throw in the saturation of home consoles, which is unlikely, and I wasn't just describing the risks of genAI – I was describing the various conditions that contributed to the video game crash of 1983. I still don't think a second video game crash will happen, but the possible similarities are undeniable, and the end result will be bad for anyone who calls themselves games.
“Joshua, get off your soapbox and get to the point of why I clicked on this article.” GOOD, SORRY, I JAPAN BECAUSE I CARE. Just look at this, pay attention to the nonsense “words” in the “game” and tell me what seems so good about this technique.
Subnautica 2 is the most desired game on Steam, and it comes from AI-First Company Krafton
Unknown Worlds Entertainment's Subnautica is incredibly popular with fans and is, at least in part, created by developers Charles Cleveland, Max McGuire and Ted Gill (the human part of the game). The sequel has so much anticipation that it has constantly flirted with, stayed on top of, and held the spot as the most desired game on Steam throughout 2025. Steam describes Subnautica 2 as an open water survival game from the “creators of Subnautica series.” Players can explore new biomes and discover unique underwater creatures, all while creating vehicles, tools and bases in an alien world.
The message is in place, but that message was established before the very public debacle between Krafton and Unknown Worlds Entertainment's Cleveland, McGuire and Gill began. In the midst of an ongoing lawsuit, Krafton CEO Kim Chang-han declared that Krafton was an AI-first company. Its workforce? Krafton has reportedly offered buyouts to employees that include a few months to a few years of salary, as first reported by Business Korea.
Subnautica 2 Publisher Reportedly Asks ChatGPT For Help To Avoid $250M Payments
At the center of Subnautica 2 publisher Krafton's legal dispute with UWE's co-founder is the claim that the former asked ChatGPT for help in avoiding the payment.
And while many are rightly concerned about genAI usage in games, many simply don't seem to care. Will they care when they discover a fish with six fingers (and hands for that matter) in it Subnautica 2? I am unsure. What I am sure of is that Subnautica 2s spot on Steam's Most Wanted list communicates to many developers that genAI, and potentially even AI-first companies, aren't hurting the bottom line. The world says to vote with your wallet, and what is capitalism if not a rigged election? Regardless of messages from Subnautica 2's place at the top is clear to developers, and it's one sent by players.
It is this AI-first attitude, developers that remain at Unknown World Entertainment, and the trial that Subnautica 2 will apparently be launched. It currently still has an Early Access release date of 2026, and while it's been a while since any real announcement or reveal for Subnautica 2which has not slowed its momentum. GenAI fish are apparently the future, sorry aquariums.
