Key Takeaways
1. Fans were disappointed by the release of the “Necroclaus” loading screen in Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, featuring odd visuals like a zombified Santa with six fingers.
2. The “Gobblegum Mania” loading screen also showcased strange designs, including a hand missing a thumb, raising concerns among players.
3. Players are urging Activision Blizzard to clarify its use of generative artificial intelligence after previously dismissing real artists.
4. Steam introduced a new AI disclosure policy in December 2024, but its connection to Call of Duty remains unclear.
5. Developers may expand the use of AI in gaming, potentially creating entire game levels, following the launch of the Muse AI model.
When Activision Blizzard released the Season 01 Reloaded update for Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 (available on Amazon) in early December 2024, some fans were a bit disappointed by a new loading screen showcasing “Necroclaus.” This zombified Santa Claus has what appears to be six fingers on a rotting hand, along with presents that have oddly placed ribbons. Additionally, the “Gobblegum Mania” loading screen features another six-fingered hand in a glove grasping several gumballs, but it is missing a thumb. Fans also noticed strange visuals on a calling card from a set of paid downloadable content. Because of these examples, players have been urging the publisher to reveal its use of generative artificial intelligence, particularly after dismissing numerous real artists previously.
Uncertain Connections to Steam
It’s still unknown if Steam’s recent AI disclosure policy is connected to Call of Duty or if Valve was already planning to add it to its product pages. However, we do know it was introduced in December 2024. A new note has popped up on the Steam page for Call of Duty BO6, stating:
The developers explain how their game incorporates AI Generated Content: Our team uses generative AI tools to help develop some in-game assets.
The Future of AI in Gaming
While this statement confirms the hints and speculation about Call of Duty’s utilization of AI assets, it’s uncertain how the player community will respond. With the launch of the Muse AI model, developers might soon expand their use of artificial intelligence beyond just loading screens and in-game items, potentially creating entire game levels through AI technology.
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