Activision Responds to Complaints of AI-Generated Assets in Call of Duty: Black Ops 7

GAMING NEWS

Activision is facing fresh backlash after players spotted what they believe to be AI-generated artwork throughout Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, sparking a wave of criticism across social platforms.

Community posts zeroed in on several calling card designs that appear to mimic Studio Ghibli-inspired trends tied to earlier viral AI art.

As reports gained momentum, Activision issued a statement to multiple outlets, including PC Gamer, addressing the situation—though without directly confirming whether the assets in question were AI-generated. The company noted: “Like many teams around the world, we use a variety of digital tools, including AI tools, to support and empower our developers in creating the best possible experiences. Our creative process continues to be led by the talented individuals in our studios.”

Notably, the Steam page for Black Ops 7 includes a short disclaimer acknowledging: “Our team uses generative AI tools to help develop some in-game assets.” The description, however, provides no detail about where or how these tools are applied.

This isn’t the first time the franchise has dealt with controversy surrounding AI usage. Earlier this year, Activision confirmed generative AI tools were used during Black Ops 6’s development—most notoriously for a zombie Santa loading screen that frustrated fans referred to as “AI slop.”

Back in August, Black Ops 7 associate creative director Miles Leslie attempted to clarify the team’s stance, stating that while AI tools exist in the workflow, the studio maintains that all in-game content is ultimately crafted and approved by human artists. He emphasized that any AI material appearing in the game was unintentional, describing such instances as accidents rather than deliberate implementation.

He added: “We use these tools to streamline workflows, not replace our artists. Everything players experience is human-created and human-finished.” When asked why questionable assets from earlier titles had not been removed, Leslie said that was outside his department, but noted that “the team is actively looking into it.”

Whether Activision’s approach to AI has shifted—or if the newly surfaced assets slipped through oversight—remains unclear.

Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 is available now. While the campaign is ambitious, our reviewer described it as uneven, noting that its bold ideas don’t always land.

By Rebekah Valentine

4 min read · Nov 2025