Call of Duty & AI: Navigating the Ongoing Debate Over Generative Tools
The use of artificial intelligence in video game development continues to be a hot topic, and the Call of Duty franchise is once again at the center of the conversation. Recent scrutiny surrounding Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 highlights a recurring pattern: acknowledging AIS role while attempting to reassure players about the continued importance of human creativity.Let’s break down the situation, the history, and what it means for your gaming experience.
The Latest: Black Ops 7 & The AI Disclaimer
The Steam page for Black Ops 7 includes a brief disclaimer stating the development team utilizes generative AI tools for some in-game assets.This statement, while technically accurate, is notably vague. It’s sparked debate among fans eager to understand exactly how AI is being implemented.
Activision maintains its commitment to empowering its development teams. They emphasize that creative direction remains firmly in the hands of talented studio personnel. Though, the lack of specific details fuels ongoing concerns.
A History of AI Backlash in call of Duty
This isn’t a new issue.Similar controversy erupted earlier this year with Call of Duty: Black Ops 6.
* February 2024: Activision admitted to using generative AI for assets in Black Ops 6, including a widely criticized zombie Santa loading screen. Players quickly labeled it “AI slop” due to its perceived low quality.
* August 2024: Miles Leslie, Associate Creative Director for Black Ops 7, offered further clarification. He stated that all in-game content is “touched by the team 100%,” and AI tools are used to streamline the process, not replace artists.
Leslie conceded that AI-generated elements had inadvertently made their way into the game, despite not being the intention. He emphasized the goal is efficiency, not substitution of human talent.
The Core Argument: Streamlining vs. Replacing
The central debate revolves around the distinction between using AI as a tool and relying on it as a primary content creator. Activision’s official line consistently positions AI as a means to enhance workflow and free up developers to focus on higher-level creative tasks.
However, the continued presence of questionable AI-generated assets – like the zombie Santa – raises questions about quality control and the extent of human oversight. When asked about the lingering AI images, Leslie stated the issue wasn’t within his purview, but that the team was “actively looking at that stuff.”
What Does This Mean for You, the Player?
The increasing integration of AI in game development is inevitable. The key is transparency and ensuring that AI serves to enhance the player experience,not detract from it.
Here’s what you should consider:
* Quality Control: AI-generated content can sometimes lack the polish and artistic nuance of human-created assets.
* Authenticity: Players value the unique vision and creativity of game developers. Over-reliance on AI could lead to homogenization.
* Transparency: Developers should be upfront about their use of AI, allowing players to make informed judgments.
Our Take on Black Ops 7
We recently reviewed Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, and while ambitious in scope, found the campaign to be uneven. Our reviewer noted it’s “a wild one thanks to the scope of its ambition, but the big swings it takes don’t always land, leaving it an uneven step down from last year.”
The AI debate adds another layer to the discussion surrounding the game’s overall quality and direction.
Ultimately,the future of AI in Call of Duty – and gaming as a whole – will depend on finding a balance between technological innovation and the irreplaceable value of human creativity.
About the Author: Rebekah Valentine is a senior reporter for IGN, covering the intersection of gaming and technology. You can find her on BlueSky @duckvalentine.bsky.social. Have a story tip? Reach out at rvalentine@ign.com.
