KRAFTON is taking a major step toward the future of artificial intelligence in gaming with the launch of the highly anticipated PUBG Ally Beta Test, a new experimental mode for PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS that allows players to team up with an AI companion capable of understanding voice commands and reacting to real-time gameplay situations.
Beginning June 17, players worldwide will be able to experience Ally Duo, a brand-new Arcade mode that pairs them with an AI teammate named Ella. The limited-time beta will run until July 1, giving the PUBG community an opportunity to explore a fresh take on cooperative gameplay powered by advanced AI technology.
What Is Ally Duo in PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS?
The new Ally Duo mode introduces a unique two-player experience set on the fan-favorite Sanhok map. Instead of teaming up with another human player, participants will be partnered with Ella, an AI companion designed to communicate, strategize, and survive alongside them.
Through voice interaction, players can issue commands, coordinate movement, request item collection, and discuss tactical decisions. The goal is to create a more immersive cooperative experience where AI functions as a genuine squadmate rather than a scripted support character.
The launch of Ally Duo marks one of the most ambitious AI integrations seen in a battle royale game to date.
Meet Ella: The AI Companion Powered by PUBG Ally
At the center of the PUBG Ally Beta Test is Ella, a co-playable AI character built using KRAFTON’s proprietary PUBG Ally technology.
Unlike traditional NPCs that operate based on predefined behavior trees and triggers, Ella is designed to understand player intent and respond dynamically to changing battlefield conditions.
PUBG Ally utilizes:
- Speech-to-Text (STT) technology
- Text-to-Speech (TTS) technology
- Real-time contextual gameplay analysis
- Advanced language processing powered by NVIDIA ACE-based technology
This combination allows Ella to interpret voice commands while simultaneously evaluating in-game events, enabling more natural interactions and tactical cooperation.
Whether players need assistance looting, navigating dangerous areas, or adapting strategies during firefights, Ella is built to provide responsive support that evolves with the match.
How PUBG Ally Differs from Traditional NPCs
Most AI-controlled characters in multiplayer games follow rigid programming rules. PUBG Ally aims to change that.
According to KRAFTON, the AI companion processes both player communication and battlefield information at the same time. This allows Ella to make decisions based on context rather than relying solely on predetermined actions.
For fast-paced tasks such as:
- Following teammates
- Collecting items
- Moving to designated locations
- Reacting to combat situations
PUBG Ally is designed to minimize latency and respond almost instantly.
For more complex situations involving teamwork and strategy, the AI evaluates the ongoing conversation and gameplay context before making decisions, creating interactions that feel significantly more human-like.
KRAFTON Sees AI Companions as the Future of Cooperative Gaming
KRAFTON’s leadership views the PUBG Ally Beta Test as an important milestone in exploring how AI can enhance player experiences.
“We’re excited to hear from players during the beta and continue improving the experience based on their feedback,” said Kangwook Lee, Chief AI Officer at KRAFTON.
The company believes AI companions could eventually unlock entirely new forms of gameplay, offering players unique ways to engage with games beyond traditional multiplayer structures.
New Opportunities for Content Creators and Streamers
Beyond gameplay innovation, KRAFTON sees significant potential for content creators.
According to SangKyun Kim, Head of PUBG Development, PUBG Ally could create new opportunities for storytelling, content creation, and unexpected gameplay moments that emerge from interactions between players and AI companions.
As AI becomes more sophisticated, creators may be able to generate unique experiences that differ from match to match, adding another layer of entertainment for livestreams and video content.
Global PUBG Ally Beta Schedule and Supported Languages
The PUBG Ally Beta Test will be available globally from:
Start Date: June 17, 2026
End Date: July 1, 2026
During the beta period, voice interactions will support:
- English
- Korean
- Chinese
KRAFTON plans to use player feedback and gameplay data gathered during the test to further refine PUBG Ally’s capabilities and future implementations.
