#Japan #Tokyo #KRAFTON #MIMESIS #ReLU Games

MIMESIS Shines at CEDEC AWARD 2026

KRAFTON JAPAN's latest horror co-op game, MIMESIS, developed by its creative studio ReLU Games, has proudly won the Excellence Award in the Game Design category at the prestigious CEDEC AWARD 2026. Additionally, it has also been selected as a finalist for the Grand Prize in the same category.

What is CEDEC AWARD 2026?

The CEDEC (Computer Entertainment Developers Conference) awards, hosted by the Computer Entertainment Supplier's Association (CESA), is Japan’s largest international conference for game developers. The CEDEC AWARDS recognize significant contributions made by technologies and developers in the field of computer entertainment, encompassing categories like Engineering, Game Design, Sound, and Visual Arts.

Innovation in Game Design

MIMESIS has been particularly noted for its unique integration of AI technology that allows players to engage with an NPC known as Mimesis. This AI mimics the voice and actions of players, offering an immersive experience that raises questions about trust among team members. The selection committee praised the game for merging AI with a cooperative gameplay style that encourages players to engage in both frightening and humorous scenarios.

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CEDEC Award committee: “MIMESIS successfully blends AI technology into a friends-based co-op game, creating new terrifying and comedic experiences.”
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The game leverages AI capabilities not just as an enemy but as a critical component of gameplay, transforming the nature of player interaction. When Mimesis, the AI-driven NPC, mimics the behavior and speech of a human player, it generates a constant layer of suspense: players must figure out who among them is authentic and who is not.

In doing so, the game creates an unprecedented atmosphere of tension and surprise, resulting in an engaging user experience that sets it apart from other horror titles. This innovative use of AI technology illustrates the potential future applications of AI within game design more broadly.

What is MIMESIS?

MIMESIS is a co-op horror game allowing up to four players to work together. Players must strategize and cooperate as an AI NPC, Mimesis, waits among them, ready to mimic both their voice and actions in real-time. This mechanization deepens the thrill of the game and transforms familiar cooperative horror gameplay into a nerve-wracking challenge. Unlike traditional horror games with predictable enemy patterns, MIMESIS offers a dynamic experience where the AI learns from players, reacting to various inputs and unveiling itself as part of the gameplay.

The game revolves around the shocking moment when players realize they have been deceived all along by an AI impostor. This psychological gameplay enriches immersion as players grapple with elements of trust and deception, finely balancing the need for teamwork alongside suspicion.

The development journey began in October 2024 with a four-person team, which rapidly scaled to approximately 20 members, leading to an early access release just a year into the project. Within just 50 days, MIMESIS sold over 1 million copies worldwide, marking it as KRAFTON's second title to achieve this milestone on Steam following the life simulation game inZOI.

ReLU Games Director’s Statement

Kim Min-jung, director of ReLU Games, expressed gratitude towards the overwhelming response from gamers since the release:

“MIMESIS is a unique IP that paves the way for new game designs, built on our studio's creativity and technical expertise. The blend of tension from distrust and unexpected excitement has created a unique user experience. We are especially thankful for the support from the Japanese gaming community and are committed to continually delivering innovative gaming experiences by integrating AI as a core entertainment element.”

Since its release, MIMESIS continues to receive significant attention from gamers worldwide. For further details, check out the Steam page.

Early Access Release Information

• - Title: MIMESIS
• - Release Date: October 27, 2025
• - Price: 1,200 Yen (tax incl.)
• - Player Count: Solo or co-op play up to 4
• - Platforms: PC (Steam)
• - MIMESIS Steam Page

About KRAFTON, Inc.

KRAFTON, Inc., headquartered in South Korea, creates numerous innovative games while discovering potential gaming IPs. Established in 2007, KRAFTON encompasses creative studios like PUBG STUDIOS, Striking Distance Studios, and ReLU Games, driving forward unique narratives and gameplay.

KRAFTON continues to evolve the gaming landscape, aiming to expand the frontiers with technologies like AI and delivering exceptional gaming experiences worldwide. You can learn more at KRAFTON Official Website.

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