What if your next PUBG squadmate wasn’t another player, but an AI?
KRAFTON is testing exactly that with the launch of Ally Duo, a new limited-time Arcade mode for PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS that pairs players with an AI companion named Ella.
Available globally from June 17 to July 1, Ally Duo drops players into Sanhok alongside Ella, an AI teammate powered by KRAFTON’s new PUBG Ally technology. Using voice commands, players can direct Ella to move, collect loot, and help execute strategies in real time.
Unlike traditional NPCs that follow scripted behavior, Ella is designed to understand both player voice commands and changing in-game situations. Built on an on-device small language model powered by NVIDIA ACE, PUBG Ally uses speech-to-text and text-to-speech technology to create a more natural, responsive co-op experience.
KRAFTON says the beta is an early step toward exploring how AI companions can reshape gameplay. The company also sees potential for new creator-driven experiences, storytelling opportunities, and fresh game modes built around AI-powered interactions.
The Ally Duo beta supports English, Korean, and Chinese, with player feedback helping shape future updates.
As AI continues to make its way into gaming, PUBG’s latest experiment offers a glimpse of what teaming up with a virtual partner could look like in the battle royale genre.
