Activision has finally acknowledged using generative AI in the development of Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, nearly three months after players noticed irregularities in game assets. The controversy began with the Season 1 Reloaded update, where loading screens, calling cards, and in-game art depicting a "Zombie Santa" (Necroclaus) and other elements exhibited telltale signs of AI generation, most notably, hands with extra fingers.

These anomalies, particularly in paid bundles, prompted scrutiny from the Call of Duty community. Redditor Shaun_LaDee highlighted further examples of questionable artwork. Following pressure and new AI disclosure rules on Steam, Activision vaguely stated on the platform: "Our team uses generative AI tools to help develop some in-game assets."

This admission follows a Wired report from July detailing Activision's sale of an unnamed AI-generated cosmetic in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3’s Yokai’s Wrath bundle (December 2023), a purchase costing 1,500 COD Points (approximately $15). The report also alleged that the company laid off 2D artists and pressured remaining staff to utilize AI tools. Activision employees were reportedly mandated to undergo AI training, highlighting the company's increased reliance on this technology.

The use of generative AI in game development remains a contentious issue, raising ethical and rights concerns, as well as questions about the quality of AI-generated content. Keywords Studios' failed experiment in creating an entirely AI-driven game underscores the limitations of current AI technology and the irreplaceable value of human talent.