Activision, the creator of Call of Duty, has finally confirmed the use of generative AI in the development of Black Ops 6, after nearly three months of fan speculation and accusations of creating "AI slop" with the Zombie Santa loading screen. The controversy began in December, following the Season 1 Reloaded update, when fans identified several indicators of AI use in Black Ops 6's loading screens, calling cards, and Zombies community event art.
The focal point of the backlash was the 'Necroclaus' loading screen, featuring a Zombie Santa that some fans claimed had six fingers, a common mistake in AI-generated images. Additionally, another image showcasing a gloved hand for a Zombies event also displayed anomalies, suggesting the presence of up to seven digits.
The Zombie Santa image prompted a deeper investigation into other Black Ops 6 visuals, leading some in the Call of Duty community to question the authenticity of images in paid bundles. Redditor Shaun_LaDee pointed out three such images with irregularities that suggested the involvement of generative AI.
Amid the 6 fingered Santa Controversy, I looked into some loading screens included in PAID bundles… from r/CODZombies
In response to fan demands and new AI disclosure rules on Steam, Activision has added a general disclosure statement for Black Ops 6, stating, "Our team uses generative AI tools to help develop some in-game assets."
In July, Wired reported that Activision sold an "AI-generated cosmetic" for Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 last year, linked to the Yokai’s Wrath bundle released in December 2023, without disclosing its AI origin. This bundle, priced at 1,500 COD Points (approximately $15), contributes to Activision's annual revenue of hundreds of millions from its premium virtual currency.
Wired also noted that Microsoft, which acquired Activision Blizzard for $69 billion last year, laid off 1,900 staff from its gaming division shortly after the sale of this AI-generated skin. An anonymous Activision artist mentioned 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 promoted throughout the company.
Generative AI remains a contentious issue within the video game and entertainment industries, which have faced significant layoffs recently. Criticism stems from ethical concerns, rights issues, and AI's challenges in creating content that resonates with audiences. For example, Keywords Studios attempted to develop an experimental game using only AI but deemed it a failure, stating to investors that AI was "unable to replace talent."
