Activision Confirms AI Use in Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 After Backlash

Activision, the developer behind Call of Duty, has officially acknowledged the use of generative AI in the creation of Black Ops 6. This admission comes nearly three months after fans pointed out what they called "AI slop" in the game's graphics, particularly in the Zombie Santa loading screen featured in the Season 1 Reloaded update released in December.

The backlash primarily focused on the image of 'Necroclaus,' the Zombie Santa, which some fans claimed depicted the character with six fingers—a common error in AI-generated images. Additionally, another image showcased a gloved hand with an unusual number of fingers, further fueling speculation about the use of AI in the game's artwork.

Following the controversy over the Zombie Santa image, the Call of Duty community scrutinized other images within Black Ops 6, particularly those in paid bundles. Redditor Shaun_LaDee highlighted several images with anomalies that suggested the use of generative AI.

Amid the 6 fingered Santa Controversy, I looked into some loading screens included in PAID bundles…
byu/Shaun_LaDee inCODZombies

Fans demanded transparency from Activision regarding the use of AI in art sold within the game. In response to new AI disclosure rules on Steam, Activision added a general disclosure for Black Ops 6 on Valve's platform, stating: "Our team uses generative AI tools to help develop some in-game assets."

Earlier in the year, Wired reported that Activision had sold an AI-generated cosmetic for Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3. The item, part of the Yokai's Wrath bundle released in December 2023, was sold for 1,500 COD Points, equivalent to about $15. The store did not disclose the use of AI in this bundle.

The sale of this AI-generated cosmetic occurred shortly before Microsoft, which acquired Activision Blizzard for $69 billion, laid off 1,900 staff from its gaming division. According to Wired, these layoffs affected many 2D artists, whose roles were increasingly being filled by AI. An anonymous Activision artist mentioned that remaining concept artists were required to use AI tools and were encouraged to participate in AI training programs.

The use of generative AI in the gaming and entertainment industries has been a controversial topic, especially given the significant layoffs in these sectors. Critics have raised ethical and rights concerns, as well as doubts about AI's ability to create content that resonates with audiences. A notable example is Keywords Studios' failed attempt to create an experimental game entirely using AI, which they later admitted could not replace human talent.