Activision Confirms AI Use in Black Ops 6 After 'AI Slop' Backlash

Activision, the maker of Call of Duty, has recently acknowledged the use of generative AI in the development of Black Ops 6, confirming fans' suspicions that emerged nearly three months ago. The controversy began in December with the Season 1 Reloaded update, where players pointed out noticeable signs of AI use in various in-game visuals, particularly in loading screens, calling cards, and illustrations for Zombies community events.

The focal point of the backlash was the 'Necroclaus' loading screen, featuring a Zombie Santa that some fans claimed had six fingers—a common flaw in AI-generated imagery. Another image, used to showcase a Zombies community event, displayed a gloved hand with an unusual number of fingers, further fueling the debate.

The Zombie Santa image led fans to scrutinize other visuals in Black Ops 6, with some suggesting that paid bundles included AI-generated art. Reddit user Shaun_LaDee highlighted several images with anomalies that hinted at AI involvement.

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

In response to fan 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."

This disclosure comes after a report by Wired in July, which revealed that Activision had sold an AI-generated cosmetic for Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 in December 2023, part of the Yokai’s Wrath bundle. Priced at 1,500 COD Points (approximately $15), the bundle did not mention the use of AI. This sale occurred shortly before Microsoft, which acquired Activision Blizzard for $69 billion, laid off 1,900 staff from its gaming division, with reports suggesting that 2D artists were being replaced by AI.

An anonymous Activision artist told Wired that many 2D artists were let go, and remaining concept artists were compelled to use AI in their work. Employees were reportedly required to undergo AI training, with its use being heavily promoted within the company.

The use of generative AI remains a contentious issue in the video game and entertainment industries, both of which have faced significant layoffs. Critics have raised concerns about ethical and rights issues, as well as the quality of AI-generated content. For example, Keywords Studios' attempt to create an entirely AI-generated game failed, with the company admitting to investors that AI could not replace human talent.