Particle.news
Download on the App Store
13 ARTICLES
·
2h ago

Subnautica 2 Trial Opens With Claims Krafton Planned 'Project X' and Asked ChatGPT to Avoid $250 Million Earnout

The Delaware case centers on a disputed earnout tied to an early‑access launch, with a 2026 delay plus missing AI logs now fueling an evidence fight.

The CEO of a video game publisher has been accused of asking ChatGPT how to wriggle out of paying out a massive $250 million bonus.
Image
Image
Image

Overview

  • Pre‑trial filings from the ousted Unknown Worlds founders allege Krafton created a covert task force called 'Project X' to renegotiate the payout or take over the studio.
  • The filings say CEO CH Kim consulted ChatGPT for ways to avoid the earnout and include Slack messages in which a senior executive suggests it might be easier to take over the studio.
  • Krafton denies the accusations, says it cannot locate the requested ChatGPT or search histories, and accuses the former leaders of deleting data and retaining confidential files.
  • Plaintiffs cite internal forecasts and reviews from May 2025 indicating the game was tracking toward an August 2025 early‑access launch that could trigger a large payout.
  • The case is being tried in Delaware Chancery Court with the founders seeking reinstatement, while Subnautica 2’s early‑access release is now slated for 2026.