Key Takeaways
In a disclosure added to Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 and Warzone Steam pages, Activision confirmed that it has used generative AI tools to develop certain in-game assets.
“Our team uses generative AI tools to help develop some in-game assets.”
This follows months of speculation from players who noticed irregularities in in-game visuals, such as distorted character models and unnatural textures.
One widely discussed example was a six-fingered zombie Santa, a flaw commonly associated with AI-generated artwork.
Activision has not specified the extent of AI involvement in asset creation, leaving unanswered questions about whether more critical aspects, such as character animations or narrative elements, have also been influenced by AI.
Why Did Activision Disclose AI Use Now?
Activision’s confirmation appears to be a direct response to Valve’s AI transparency rules, implemented in January 2024.
These rules require game developers to:
“We don’t feel like we serve our players or developer partners by rushing into decisions that have this much complexity. We’ll continue to learn from the games being submitted to Steam, and the legal progress around AI, and will revisit this decision when necessary.”
This suggests that future regulatory changes or industry standards could further evolve AI policies, impacting Activision and other publishers using AI-driven development methods.
While Activision has not detailed the full scope of AI-generated content, multiple reports and player observations suggest that AI has been applied to:How AI Is Being Used in Call of Duty
Activision has not clarified whether AI is used in core gameplay elements, such as character animations, game physics, or AI-controlled opponents.
Activision’s disclosure has reignited concerns about AI-generated content being sold as premium cosmetic items without transparency before the Steam disclosure rule. Many players argue that AI-generated assets:Criticism from the Community
On social media, some players have referred to AI-generated in-game content as “AI Slop.”
This term reflects a growing frustration that game publishers may prioritize cost-cutting measures over artistic integrity.
Defenders of AI in Gaming
However, some industry professionals argue that when properly managed, AI can improve game development efficiency.
“While I understand some of the concerns over the training of AI models—we can and should do better in their development—one thing I’ve maintained is that AI is a new tool that will help to streamline aspects of game development.”— James Casey, Associate Professor at George Mason University’s Computer Game Design Program
This perspective suggests that AI could be a tool to assist rather than replace human artists, allowing them to focus on higher-level creative tasks.
The use of AI-generated assets raises complex legal questions, particularly regarding ownership and copyright protection. 📌 Copyright Risks – The U.S. Copyright Office has ruled that AI-generated works are not eligible for copyright protection, making it unclear whether publishers like Activision have full legal rights over AI-created assets. 📌 Consumer Rights – Should players be informed before purchasing if AI-generated content is sold as premium cosmetic items? Some consumer advocacy groups have raised concerns about whether AI-generated items should be priced the same as human-designed content. 📌 Regulatory Uncertainty – Global regulators are closely monitoring AI’s impact on intellectual property rights, potentially leading to new industry regulations or legal disputes over AI-created game assets.Legal & Ethical Challenges Facing AI in Game Development
“We are actively engaged in discussions about how AI should be used in creative industries, and we will not allow it to replace human talent without accountability.”
— SAG-AFTRA spokesperson on AI’s impact on the entertainment industry
This statement reflects broader industry concerns that AI could disrupt traditional job roles, especially in creative fields such as game design, animation, and voice acting.
Microsoft’s Expanding AI Influence in Gaming
Activision’s disclosure aligns with Microsoft’s increasing investment in AI-driven game development.
Since acquiring Activision for $69 billion in 2023, Microsoft has launched AI-driven initiatives, including:
“AI is going to transform how we build and experience games, but we have a responsibility to ensure that we use it in a way that supports both developers and players.” — Phil Spencer, CEO of Microsoft Gaming
Microsoft’s push toward AI raises questions about whether automation is enhancing game development or primarily serving as a cost-cutting measure.
Activision’s decision to acknowledge AI use in Call of Duty marks a turning point in game development transparency.
However, with legal, ethical, and consumer trust challenges still unresolved, the debate over AI’s role in gaming is far from over.
February 25, 2025: Microsoft Pulls the Plug on AI Data Center Leases—What’s Going On? February 24, 2025: Microsoft Teases AI-Powered Features for the Future of Xbox Games! February 20, 2025: Microsoft Brings AI to Video Games With New Model!
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