In recent SonyPlayStation State of Play press conferenceOn [date], KRAFTON's Montreal studio officially unveiled Project Windless, a new open-world action RPG based on the classic Korean fantasy novel "The Bird That Drinks Tears." However, given KRAFTON's previous heavy investment in AI technology, many players are concerned whether this highly anticipated AAA title will be filled with "AI-generated content."
In response, the development team recently clarified to the media that while Project Windless does use AI, it is definitely not used for "content creation" or "narrative elements".
AI is only used for early-stage exploration and traditional NPC behavior control.
According to EurogamerInterviewA KRAFTON spokesperson clarified that the team did use AI tools to improve efficiency during the "exploration phase" of Project Windless's early development. However, they emphasized that the core content of the game does not employ generative AI.
The spokesperson stated, "We have not used generative AI to create game content or narrative elements." The AI system that does exist in the game is actually "traditional AI," a long-standing practice in game development—primarily used to control the behavior of NPCs (non-player characters). These systems determine how characters react, move, and fight in their environment, which is entirely different from the generative AI images or text currently on the market that have sparked copyright and quality controversies.
Upholding the spirit of traditional craftsmanship, expanding the universe of "The Bird That Drinks Tears".
KRAFTON Montreal studio emphasizes that the development of Project Windless was carried out in a "traditional, craftsmanship-oriented" manner.
This new title, confirmed for release on PS5 and PS5 Pro, is based on the world of South Korean author Lee Young-do's landmark fantasy novel, *The Bird That Drinks Tears*. However, the game doesn't directly adapt the novel's plot; instead, it sets the timeline 1500 years before the events of the original story.
Players will take on the role of heroes from the mythical Rekon race—humanoid birds with incredible strength and enormous size. Amidst a fragmented continent, players will witness the birth of a new kingdom through an action-packed combat system that the developers emphasize as "larger and wilder," engaging in epic battles where one player can take on thousands.
The heavy investment in AI is to liberate creativity, not to replace creators.
Back in 2025, KRAFTON announced a multi-million dollar restructuring focused on AI technology. This move sparked speculation at the time that its games would be "fully AI-enabled."
However, KRAFTON clarified that its primary motivation for heavily promoting AI was to apply it to tedious "project management" tasks. By using AI to assist with administrative and process management, developers can free up more time and energy to focus on true "creative work," thereby creating better game experiences. KRAFTON also emphasized that its various studios maintain a high degree of creative independence, and teams are free to choose the development tools and methods best suited for each project.
Analysis of viewpoints
With the explosion of generative AI technology, the gaming community has become extremely sensitive to whether AI is used in games. Many players worry that over-reliance on AI-generated artwork, scripts, or voice acting will cause games to lose their soul and even spark controversies about shoddy workmanship and plagiarism.
KRAFTON's swift clarification is clearly aimed at preventing Project Windless, a AAA single-player title, from being labeled as "AI-scripted" or "AI-reskinned," which would be fatal to its sales and reputation. KRAFTON further pointed out the balance point in current AI technology applications: "Use AI to assist in project management and early concept development, use traditional algorithms to write NPC logic, but leave the core story and art to the staff."
