Activision Confirms Use of Generative AI in Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 Amid Controversy

Activision, the developer behind Call of Duty, has finally acknowledged the use of generative AI in the creation of Black Ops 6's content, confirming suspicions that arose among fans three months ago. The controversy began with the Season 1 Reloaded update in December, when players spotted several signs pointing to AI use in the game's loading screens, calling cards, and explanatory art for Zombies community events.

The focal point of fan backlash was a loading screen featuring Zombie Santa, or 'Necroclaus,' which appeared to depict the undead Father Christmas with six fingers—a common error in AI-generated images, particularly when it comes to rendering hands accurately.

Black Ops 6's 'Necroclaus' loading screen. Image credit: Activision Publishing.

Another image showcased a gloved hand for a Zombies community event, which seemed to have six fingers and no thumb, hinting at the presence of up to seven digits. This led to a deeper scrutiny of other images in Black Ops 6, prompting discussions within the Call of Duty community.

The central image includes a gloved hand with some odd things going on. Image credit: Activision Publishing.

Redditor Shaun_LaDee highlighted irregularities in three images from paid bundles, further suggesting the use of generative AI. Fans demanded transparency from Activision, especially concerning art in paid bundles. Following new AI disclosure rules on Steam, Activision added a general disclosure statement to Black Ops 6, stating, “Our team uses generative AI tools to help develop some in-game assets.”

In July, Wired reported that Activision had sold an "AI-generated cosmetic" for Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3, specifically linked to the Yokai’s Wrath bundle released in December 2023. This bundle, which cost 1,500 COD Points (approximately $15), did not disclose the use of AI. The report also highlighted that Microsoft, which acquired Activision Blizzard for $69 billion, laid off 1,900 gaming staff shortly after this sale, with 2D artists reportedly being replaced by AI.

An anonymous Activision artist told Wired that many 2D artists were laid off, and remaining concept artists were compelled to use AI in their work. It was alleged that employees were required to participate in AI training sessions, with AI use being heavily promoted across the company.

Generative AI has become a contentious topic in the video game and entertainment industries, which have seen significant layoffs in recent years. Critics have raised concerns over ethical and rights issues, as well as the quality of AI-generated content. An example is Keywords Studios' experimental game, which failed due to AI's inability to replace human talent effectively.