Activision, the developer behind Call of Duty, has officially 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 Zombies community event art.
The focal point of the backlash was a loading screen featuring 'Necroclaus,' or Zombie Santa, which some fans pointed out had six fingers—a common error in AI-generated images. Another image showcased a gloved hand with an unusual number of fingers, further fueling the debate over AI's role in the game's art.
The Zombie Santa image prompted a deeper investigation into other visuals within Black Ops 6, leading to the discovery of additional anomalies in images from paid bundles, as highlighted by Redditor Shaun_LaDee. This scrutiny led fans to demand transparency from Activision regarding the use of AI in art sold within the game.
Amid the 6 fingered Santa Controversy, I looked into some loading screens included in PAID bundles…
byu/Shaun_LaDee inCODZombies
In response to new AI disclosure requirements on Steam, Activision has added a general statement to Black Ops 6's page, admitting that "Our team uses generative AI tools to help develop some in-game assets." This disclosure comes after reports from Wired that Activision had previously sold an AI-generated cosmetic in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 without any disclosure. The cosmetic, part of the Yokai’s Wrath bundle, was sold for 1,500 COD Points, equivalent to about $15.
The use of AI in game development has been a contentious issue, especially following Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard and subsequent layoffs, which reportedly affected 2D artists. An anonymous Activision artist told Wired that remaining concept artists were compelled to use AI tools, and employees were encouraged to undergo AI training.
The broader entertainment and video game industries have faced significant layoffs, and the integration of generative AI has sparked debates over ethics, rights, and the quality of AI-generated content. An example is Keywords Studios' failed attempt to create a game using AI, which they later admitted could not replace human talent.
