Activision, the maker of Call of Duty, has finally acknowledged using generative AI in the development of Black Ops 6, nearly three months after fans accused the company of creating subpar assets, notably a controversial "AI slop" Zombie Santa loading screen. The backlash began in December, following the Season 1 Reloaded update. Fans noticed inconsistencies in Black Ops 6 loading screens, calling cards, and in-game art explaining Zombies community events.
The main point of contention was a loading screen depicting Zombie Santa, or "Necroclaus," which appeared to show the undead Father Christmas with six fingers—a common flaw in generative AI's rendering of hands. A similar issue arose in an image showcasing a new Zombies community event, featuring a gloved hand with what looked like six fingers and no thumb.
The controversy surrounding Zombie Santa prompted a closer examination of other Black Ops 6 images, leading to further questions within the Call of Duty community. Redditor Shaun_LaDee highlighted irregularities in three images from paid bundles, further fueling speculation about AI usage.
Amid the 6 fingered Santa Controversy, I looked into some loading screens included in PAID bundles… by u/Shaun_LaDee in CODZombies
Following pressure from fans and new AI disclosure rules on Steam, Activision added a vague disclosure to Black Ops 6 on Valve's platform: "Our team uses generative AI tools to help develop some in-game assets."
This admission follows a Wired report from July, revealing that Activision sold an unnamed AI-generated cosmetic in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 in December 2023, part of the Yokai’s Wrath bundle, without disclosing the AI's involvement. This bundle cost 1,500 COD Points (approximately $15), contributing to Activision's substantial revenue from in-game purchases.
Wired also reported that Microsoft, Activision Blizzard's parent company, laid off 1,900 gaming employees shortly after this sale, with allegations that some 2D artists' jobs were replaced by AI. Activision employees reportedly underwent mandatory AI training, indicating a company-wide push towards AI integration.
The use of generative AI in video game development remains a contentious issue, raising ethical and rights concerns, alongside questions about the quality and appeal of AI-generated content. Keywords Studios' failed experiment in creating an entirely AI-driven game highlights the limitations of current AI technology and the irreplaceable value of human talent.
