Activision, the maker of Call of Duty, has officially acknowledged the use of generative AI in the development of Black Ops 6. This admission comes nearly three months after fans criticized the company for what they termed "AI slop," particularly focusing on a Zombie Santa loading screen known as 'Necroclaus.' The controversy erupted in December following the Season 1 Reloaded update, when players spotted several signs of AI use in the game's loading screens, calling cards, and explanatory art for Zombies community events.
The 'Necroclaus' image, which depicted the undead Father Christmas with six fingers, drew significant attention. Generative AI is notorious for its difficulty in accurately rendering hands, often resulting in extra fingers. Another image showing a gloved hand for a Zombies community event also appeared to have six fingers, hinting at the use of AI.
The Zombie Santa image prompted a deeper investigation into other images within Black Ops 6. Redditor Shaun_LaDee pointed out irregularities in images from paid bundles, further suggesting the use of generative AI. This led fans to demand that Activision disclose the use of AI in art included in paid bundles. In response to new AI disclosure rules on Steam, Activision added a general disclosure statement for Black Ops 6, stating, "Our team uses generative AI tools to help develop some in-game assets."
Earlier, in July, Wired reported 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, without disclosing the use of AI. This bundle, costing 1,500 COD Points (approximately $15), contributed to the company's significant revenue from its premium virtual currency.
The report also highlighted that Microsoft, which acquired Activision Blizzard for $69 billion last year, laid off 1,900 staff from its gaming business shortly after the sale of this AI-generated cosmetic. An anonymous Activision artist told Wired that many 2D artists had been laid off, and remaining concept artists were compelled to use AI in their work. Employees were reportedly required to undergo AI training, indicating a broader push towards AI within the company.
Generative AI remains a contentious topic in the video game and entertainment industries, both of which have seen substantial layoffs recently. Critics argue that AI brings up ethical and rights issues, and it often fails to produce content that resonates with audiences. An example is Keywords Studios' failed attempt to create an AI-generated game, which they acknowledged could not replace human talent.
