Activision Confirms Use of Generative AI in Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 After 'AI Slop' Backlash

Activision, the developer behind Call of Duty, has finally acknowledged the use of generative AI in the creation of Black Ops 6, following months of fan accusations that labeled the game's artwork as "AI slop." The controversy erupted in December with the Season 1 Reloaded update, when players spotted numerous signs of AI-generated content in loading screens, calling cards, and Zombies community event illustrations.

At the heart of the backlash was the loading screen featuring Zombie Santa, or 'Necroclaus,' which some fans pointed out had six fingers—a common error in AI-generated images, particularly with hands. Another image showcased a gloved hand for a new Zombies event, appearing to have six fingers and no thumb, suggesting up to seven digits.

The scrutiny of the Zombie Santa image led to a broader examination of Black Ops 6's visuals. Redditor Shaun_LaDee flagged three images from paid bundles, highlighting irregularities that hinted at the use of generative AI.

Amid the 6 fingered Santa Controversy, I looked into some loading screens included in PAID bundles…
byu/Shaun_LaDee inCODZombies

Fans demanded transparency regarding the use of AI in art sold within bundles. In response to new AI disclosure regulations on Steam, Activision added a vague statement to Black Ops 6's page: “Our team uses generative AI tools to help develop some in game assets.”

This disclosure comes after a report by Wired in July, which revealed that Activision sold an AI-generated cosmetic for Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 last year, part of the Yokai’s Wrath bundle, without disclosing the use of AI. Priced at 1,500 COD Points—roughly $15—this bundle contributes to Activision's substantial annual revenue from premium virtual currency.

The use of AI at Activision became more controversial following Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard for $69 billion. Shortly after, Microsoft laid off 1,900 employees from its gaming division, with reports indicating that 2D artists were among those affected, their roles being replaced by AI. An anonymous artist from Activision told Wired that remaining concept artists were compelled to use AI, with company-wide promotion of AI training.

Generative AI is a hotly debated topic across the video game and entertainment industries, both of which have experienced significant layoffs recently. The technology has faced criticism for ethical and rights issues, as well as its inability to create content that resonates with audiences. A case in point is Keywords Studios, which attempted to develop a game entirely using AI, only to report to investors that the technology was "unable to replace talent."