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

Activision, the developer behind Call of Duty, has recently acknowledged the use of generative AI in the creation of Black Ops 6, following months of speculation and criticism from fans. The controversy erupted in December after the Season 1 Reloaded update, when players spotted what they believed to be AI-generated elements in the game's loading screens, calling cards, and community event art.

The focal point of the backlash was the 'Necroclaus' loading screen, featuring a Zombie Santa with what appeared to be six fingers—a common error in AI-generated images. Another image showcased a gloved hand with an unusual number of fingers, further fueling suspicions of AI use.

The scrutiny extended to other images within Black Ops 6, particularly those in paid bundles, which some community members, including Redditor Shaun_LaDee, identified as potentially AI-generated due to their irregularities.

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

In response to the growing concerns and new AI disclosure rules on Steam, Activision has now added a general statement about the use of generative AI across Black Ops 6. The disclosure on Steam states: “Our team uses generative AI tools to help develop some in-game assets.”

This admission comes after reports surfaced that Activision had sold an AI-generated cosmetic for Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 in the Yokai’s Wrath bundle in December 2023, without any disclosure at the time. The bundle, priced at 1,500 COD Points (approximately $15), contributed to Activision's lucrative virtual currency sales.

The use of AI in game development has been a contentious issue, especially in light of Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard and subsequent layoffs, including those affecting 2D artists. An anonymous artist from Activision told Wired that remaining concept artists were pressured to use AI tools, and employees were encouraged to undergo AI training.

The broader gaming and entertainment industries have been grappling with the implications of generative AI, facing criticism over ethical and rights concerns, as well as the technology's limitations in creating engaging content. An example of this is Keywords Studios' failed attempt to develop an experimental game entirely using AI, which they admitted could not replace human talent.