Activision, the developer behind the Call of Duty series, has officially acknowledged the use of generative AI in the creation of Black Ops 6. This admission comes nearly three months after the gaming community raised concerns over what they described as "AI slop" in various game assets, particularly focusing on a loading screen featuring Zombie Santa, dubbed 'Necroclaus.' The controversy began in December with the Season 1 Reloaded update, where fans spotted numerous signs suggesting AI involvement, such as the depiction of Zombie Santa with six fingers—a common flaw in AI-generated images.
The backlash intensified when additional images were scrutinized. For instance, a gloved hand used in a Zombies community event graphic appeared to have six fingers and no thumb, hinting at AI's struggle with anatomical accuracy. This led to a broader examination of Black Ops 6's art, with Redditor Shaun_LaDee pointing out irregularities in images from paid bundles that further suggested the use of AI.
In response to the community's outcry and new AI disclosure requirements on Steam, Activision added a general statement to Black Ops 6's Steam page, admitting, "Our team uses generative AI tools to help develop some in-game assets." This disclosure follows a report by Wired in July, which revealed that Activision had sold an AI-generated cosmetic in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3, part of the Yokai’s Wrath bundle, without disclosing its AI origins. This bundle, costing 1,500 COD Points (around $15), was sold without any mention of AI use.
The use of AI in game development comes amid significant layoffs at Activision Blizzard, which was acquired by Microsoft for $69 billion last year. Wired reported that Microsoft cut 1,900 jobs from its gaming division shortly after the sale of the AI-generated skin, with 2D artists particularly affected. An anonymous Activision artist disclosed to Wired that many 2D artists were laid off, and remaining concept artists were compelled to use AI tools, with mandatory AI training sessions being enforced across the company.
The integration of generative AI in the video game and entertainment industries has sparked widespread debate, especially given the recent wave of layoffs. Critics argue that AI raises ethical and rights issues and often fails to meet player expectations. An example cited by Keywords Studios, which attempted to develop an entirely AI-generated game, underscores these concerns. The project ultimately failed, with Keywords informing investors that AI could not replace human talent.
Black Ops 6's 'Necroclaus' loading screen. Image credit: Activision Publishing.
The central image includes a gloved hand with some odd things going on. Image credit: Activision Publishing.
