If you’ve come across this scenario before, then it’s no surprise: The latest instalment of the *Call of Duty* franchise appears to feature computer-generated artwork that lacks quality, causing dissatisfaction among players. This time, it’s the recently launched *Black Ops 7.*
On November 14, *Call of Duty: Black Ops 7* was released on various gaming platforms. Shortly after its launch, gamers began sharing in-game screenshots of what they perceive as subpar AI-created art, sparking discontent. Upon closer inspection of the artwork, such as player banners, evident characteristics of AI-generated imagery emerge – like a cartoon character sporting six fingers, misaligned eyelines, and vague object definitions. Overall, the images appear uninspiring. It’s disheartening to receive these artworks as rewards for completing challenges; it feels like machine-produced ‘art’.
Some players have also posted screenshots showcasing AI-generated art within *Black Ops 7’s* online multiplayer-focused campaign mode. It remains uncertain which pieces were crafted by humans, generated by AI, or a blend of both with human modifications.
However, it is confirmed that *Black Ops 7* incorporates AI art, as indicated on the game’s Steam store page: ‘Our team utilizes generative AI tools for certain in-game assets.’ This disclaimer mirrors the one seen on *Black Ops 6’s* store page, added in February.
Upon reaching out to Activision regarding the AI-generated art in *Black Ops 7,* *Kotaku* received a response stating that digital tools, including AI tools, are employed to enhance game development while emphasising that human creativity remains central to their process.
This response echoes statements made earlier this year by Activision and Treyarch about *Black Ops 6,* amid player accusations concerning the use of AI-generated content. In an interview with *IGN,* Treyarch’s associate creative director discussed the integration of AI art in *Black Ops 7,* highlighting that despite using AI tools for assistance, all content undergoes human oversight.
Despite the unintentional inclusion of some unpolished AI-generated art in *Black Ops 6,* developers clarified that their aim is not to replace human input but to streamline the creative process. With bland AI-generated images surfacing in *Call of Duty: Black Ops 7* and Activision acknowledging and embracing this approach, it appears to be the new norm in game development.