Activision, the developer behind Call of Duty, has finally acknowledged the use of generative AI in the creation of Black Ops 6, following fan outcry over an image of Zombie Santa, dubbed 'Necroclaus,' in the game's loading screens. This admission comes nearly three months after the Season 1 Reloaded update in December, when the community pointed out several anomalies in the game's visual assets, including loading screens, calling cards, and Zombies community event art.
The controversy centered around the 'Necroclaus' image, where some fans noticed the undead Santa appeared to have six fingers—a common error in AI-generated imagery. Another image showcased a gloved hand with what appeared to be six fingers and no thumb, hinting at even more digits. These observations led fans to scrutinize other images within Black Ops 6, with some paid bundles also coming under suspicion for potential AI-generated irregularities.
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.
Amidst the uproar, fans demanded transparency from Activision regarding the use of AI in art sold within bundles. Following new AI disclosure rules on Steam, Activision has now included a broad statement in Black Ops 6’s Steam AI Generated Content Disclosure, 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, which was priced at 1,500 COD Points, equivalent to about $15. This bundle's use of AI was not disclosed at the time of sale. Activision, now under Microsoft's ownership following a $69 billion acquisition, had recently cut 1,900 jobs from its gaming division, with reports suggesting that 2D artists were being replaced by AI. An anonymous Activision artist told Wired that remaining concept artists were compelled to use AI and attend AI training sessions.
Generative AI remains a contentious topic across the video game and entertainment sectors, facing criticism for ethical and rights concerns, as well as its inability to consistently produce content that resonates with audiences. An example of this is Keywords Studios' failed attempt to create an entirely AI-generated game, which they described to investors as unable to replace human talent.
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