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

Activision, the developer behind Call of Duty, has recently confirmed the use of generative AI in the creation of Black Ops 6, following months of speculation from fans. The controversy erupted after the Season 1 Reloaded update in December, when players spotted numerous signs of AI-generated content in loading screens, calling cards, and art explaining Zombies community events.

The focal point of the uproar was the 'Necroclaus' loading screen featuring Zombie Santa, which some fans pointed out appeared to have six fingers—a common flaw in AI-generated images. Similarly, another image showcased a gloved hand with an unusual number of fingers, further fueling the debate over AI's involvement in the game's art.

The Zombie Santa image prompted a deeper examination of other visuals in Black Ops 6, leading some community members to question the authenticity of images in paid bundles. Redditor Shaun_LaDee highlighted several images with anomalies that hinted at 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

In response to the outcry and new AI disclosure rules on Steam, Activision has added a general statement to Black Ops 6's Steam page, admitting that "Our team uses generative AI tools to help develop some in-game assets."

Further scrutiny came to light when Wired reported that Activision had sold an AI-generated cosmetic in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 last year, part of the Yokai’s Wrath bundle, without disclosing its AI origins. This bundle, priced at 1,500 COD Points (around $15), contributed to the company's lucrative microtransaction revenue.

This revelation followed Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard and subsequent layoffs, including 1,900 staff cuts from its gaming division. According to Wired, these layoffs affected 2D artists, whose roles were reportedly being supplanted by AI. An anonymous Activision artist disclosed that remaining concept artists were compelled to use AI tools, and employees were encouraged to undergo AI training.

The use of generative AI in the entertainment and video game industries is a contentious issue, exacerbated by widespread layoffs and concerns over ethics, rights, and the quality of AI-generated content. The failure of Keywords Studios to create a successful game using AI further underscores the limitations of this technology in replacing human creativity and talent.