Google DeepMind is partnering with EVE Online's developer to use an offline version of the game for AI research, focusing on advanced AI capabilities like long-term planning and memory in complex virtual environments.
Fenris Creations, EVE Online's developer, regained independence through a management buyout from Pearl Abyss, suggesting a strategic shift to prioritize its core product and streamline operations after previous financial losses.
The significant decrease in EVE Online's valuation from Pearl Abyss's initial acquisition highlights the challenges of integrating acquired studios and the financial impact of unsuccessful diversification attempts like blockchain games.

Atlas AI
Google DeepMind has established a research partnership with Fenris Creations, the developer of EVE Online. DeepMind will utilize an offline version of the game to test AI models focused on long-horizon planning, memory, and continual learning within complex, dynamic systems.
This collaboration follows Fenris Creations' management acquiring the company from Pearl Abyss for $120 million. The transaction results in Fenris Creations operating as an independent entity, with no reported restructuring or layoffs.
Pearl Abyss had acquired CCP Games, the predecessor to Fenris Creations, for $225 million six years prior. The recent sale price indicates a significant decrease in valuation for the asset.
Fenris Creations reported profitability in 2025 with $70 million in revenue, despite previous annual losses nearing $20 million in 2023 and 2024. These losses were attributed partly to development costs for blockchain-based and extraction-shooter spinoffs.
DeepMind's AI Research with EVE Online Illustrates Global Trend of AI Utilizing Complex Virtual Environments for Advanced Development
Google DeepMind's partnership with EVE Online to research AI focused on long-horizon planning, memory, and continual learning signals a growing global trend of leading AI developers leveraging sophisticated virtual environments to push the boundaries of AI capabilities. This approach allows for experimentation in complex, dynamic systems that mirror real-world challenges, potentially accelerating breakthroughs applicable across various industries globally.
The company's renewed independence is intended to facilitate long-term strategic decisions and provide a more direct operational structure for its core product.
