By Sagar V. Mankar 
Krafton, the developer behind PUBG, has unveiled a new AI feature called Co-Playable Characters (CPCs) at CES 2025, Las Vegas. Marketed as advanced “AI companions,” CPCs are designed to act, respond, and strategize like human teammates for solo players in PUBG.
These CPCs utilize NVIDIA’s Avatar Cloud Engine (ACE) technology and on-device Small Language Models (SLM) to create human-like interactions and enhance decision-making on the virtual battlefield.
While the technology sounds promising, questions remain about how it truly differentiates itself from traditional Non-Player Characters (NPCs), so let’s dive into it:
CPCs vs Traditional NPCs: What Sets Them Apart?
The primary distinction between CPCs and NPCs lies in their behavior and responsiveness. Traditional NPCs operate on pre-scripted patterns and follow predictable behaviors, limiting their ability to adapt to dynamic scenarios. In contrast, CPCs, powered by NVIDIA ACE, can understand player commands in real-time, interpret environmental cues, and make decisions based on ongoing gameplay.
For example, in PUBG, players can verbally instruct their CPC companion, which they are calling “PUBG Ally,” to find specific armor or cover fire during combat. The CPC will respond in real-time, execute the task, and even engage in light banter. In contrast, an NPC would likely follow rigid commands without adapting to changing situations or engaging in meaningful dialogue.
KRAFTON’s generative AI – PUBG Ally system.
Play PUBG like a single-player game💀💀💀
Arena Breakout: INFINITE added the “AI Companion” system 4 months ago, this def is not the “world’s first co-playable character.” pic.twitter.com/CfBtUede5t
— PlayerIGN (@PlayerIGN) January 7, 2025
The Promise and the Pitfalls of CPCs
While CPCs aim to replicate human-like teammates, the technology isn’t without its challenges. The interaction, while impressive, still carries a slightly robotic tone. Real-time decision-making relies heavily on the SLM’s efficiency, and any lag or error in processing could break immersion.
Moreover, reliance on CPCs could potentially reduce the need for real human teammates, raising concerns about the future of multiplayer dynamics. Will players prefer AI partners over real teammates? And if so, what does this mean for the social aspect of gaming?
CPCs in PUBG vs Smart Zois in InZoi
Krafton’s implementation of CPCs varies between PUBG and inZoi. In PUBG, the AI companion “PUBG Ally” focuses on combat tasks, such as finding resources, spotting enemies, and coordinating attacks. The focus is on utility and survival.
On the other hand, Krafton’s The Sims competitor inZoi introduces “Smart Zois,” AI-driven citizens designed to mimic real-life behaviors in a simulation game. These characters operate based on “free will,” reacting to trends, forming reputations, and interacting organically with the player and environment. While PUBG’s CPCs prioritize tactical utility, inZoi‘s Smart Zois prioritize social and environmental interaction.
The Industry Trend and the Road Ahead
Krafton is not alone in experimenting with AI companions. Other major companies like Microsoft, EA, and Ubisoft are also investing heavily in similar AI technologies. Ubisoft, for instance, has already showcased their “Neo NPCs” system, which allows players to have conversations with computer-controlled characters.
For now, Krafton hasn’t announced an official release date for these AI teammates in PUBG or inZoi.
Sources: NVIDIA Blog, Krafton Official Press releases