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

Activision, the maker of Call of Duty, has finally acknowledged the use of generative AI in the development of Black Ops 6, nearly three months after fans accused the company of using AI to create what they called "AI slop" in the form of a Zombie Santa loading screen.

In December, following the release of the Season 1 Reloaded update, fans identified several signs of AI use in Black Ops 6's loading screens, calling cards, and art used to illustrate Zombies community events. The focal point of the controversy was the 'Necroclaus' loading screen, which depicted the undead Father Christmas with an extra finger, a common issue with generative AI.

Black Ops 6's 'Necroclaus' loading screen. Image credit: Activision Publishing.

Another image showcased a gloved hand with irregularities suggesting up to seven digits, further fueling speculation about AI involvement.

The central image includes a gloved hand with some odd things going on. Image credit: Activision Publishing.

The Zombie Santa image prompted fans to scrutinize other Black Ops 6 visuals, leading to the discovery of more anomalies in paid bundles, as highlighted by Redditor Shaun_LaDee.

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

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

In July, Wired reported that Activision sold an “AI-generated cosmetic” for Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 last year, linked to the Yokai’s Wrath bundle released in December 2023, without disclosing the use of AI. This bundle, costing 1,500 COD Points (approximately $15), contributed to the hundreds of millions of dollars Activision earns annually from its premium virtual currency.

Wired also highlighted that Microsoft, which acquired Activision Blizzard for $69 billion last year, laid off 1,900 staff from its gaming division shortly after the sale of this skin. An anonymous Activision artist told the site that many 2D artists were laid off, and remaining concept artists were forced to use AI in their work. Employees were allegedly compelled to undergo AI training, with its use being promoted throughout the company.

Generative AI remains a contentious issue within the video game and entertainment industries, which have faced significant layoffs in recent years. Critics argue that AI raises ethical and rights concerns and often fails to produce content that resonates with audiences. For example, Keywords Studios attempted to develop an entirely AI-generated game, which failed, as they reported to investors that AI could not replace human talent.