Call of Duty fans, brace yourselves! The gaming world is ablaze with controversy as Activision comes under fire for allegedly using generative AI art assets in Call of Duty: Black Ops 7. Gamers have rallied on social media to call out what they believe are AI-generated images reminiscent of Studio Ghibli's iconic style, raising the heat with accusations and speculation!
User @Kumesicles ignited the social media storm, pointing fingers at the Campaign and endgame calling cards on Twitter, exclaiming, "I haven't really looked at the Multiplayer and Zombie calling cards as closely, but I'm willing to bet they're using AI on those too!" (link)
In the wake of this outcry, Activision was quick to respond with a statement to various outlets, including PC Gamer. Their declaration? “Like so many around the world, we use a variety of digital tools, including AI tools, to empower and support our teams to create the best gaming experiences possible for our players. Our creative process continues to be led by the talented individuals in our studios.” Sounds like a dodge ball game of statement re-directions!
The Call of Duty fans, however, are not entirely convinced. The game's Steam page reluctantly whispers a disclaimer: "Our team uses generative AI tools to help develop some in-game assets." Talk about a breadcrumb trail!
Flashback to earlier this year! The ghost of Black Ops 6 still haunts us with its generative AI debacle involving a holiday-themed "AI slop" Zombie Santa loading screen, which riled up the community. Yet, history might be repeating itself as Activision finds itself stuck in familiar quicksand.
But wait, there's more! In August, Black Ops 7 Associate Creative Director Miles Leslie attempted to clear the air, defending the tech by saying, “We live in a world now, where there are AI tools. Everything that goes into the game is touched by the team a hundred percent. We have generative AI tools to help us, but none of that goes in-game... by intention!” Bold words for a hot topic!
IGN pressed further, demanding answers on why those AI imaginations—like that awkward Zombie Santa—haven’t been exorcised from the game! Leslie offered a cryptic, "Not my department," and reassured, "The team is actively looking at that stuff." Ominous much?
Don't put down your controller just yet—Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 is on the battlefield now! While our critics tasted the campaign's ambitions and found them somewhat tough to chew, it's gathering a crowd regardless, with gamers waiting eagerly to see if these wild swings hit home.
For the latest in gaming excitement, tune into our ongoing coverage. Got a hot story or a secret from the trenches? Share it with Rebekah Valentine at rvalentine@ign.com. Game on!