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

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,' a Zombie Santa character. Some fans pointed out that the image depicted the undead Santa with six fingers, a common error in AI-generated images, particularly with hands. Another image showcased a gloved hand with an unusual number of fingers, further fueling the debate over AI use in the game's art.

The 'Necroclaus' image prompted a deeper investigation into other visuals within Black Ops 6. Redditor Shaun_LaDee highlighted several images in paid bundles that displayed anomalies suggestive of AI generation, intensifying calls for transparency from the community.

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 surfaced that Activision had sold an AI-generated cosmetic in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3, specifically within the Yokai’s Wrath bundle, without any prior disclosure.

The Yokai’s Wrath bundle, priced at 1,500 COD Points (approximately $15), was part of Activision's lucrative in-game purchases, which generate significant revenue. Following Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard for $69 billion, the company laid off 1,900 staff from its gaming division, with reports suggesting that 2D artists were particularly affected, being replaced by AI tools.

An anonymous Activision artist revealed to Wired that remaining concept artists were compelled to use AI in their work, and employees were encouraged to undergo AI training. The use of generative AI has become a contentious issue across the video game and entertainment industries, especially amid widespread layoffs. Critics have raised concerns over ethical and rights issues, as well as the quality of AI-generated content, which often fails to meet audience expectations. Keywords Studios' attempt to create an entirely AI-generated game ended in failure, underscoring the limitations of AI in replacing human creativity.