Player Backlash Against AI in Call of Duty: Black Ops 6
Players of Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 are expressing frustration over what they believe to be the use of “AI slop” within the game and its promotional materials. Over the weekend, a peculiar appearance of a zombified Father Christmas with six fingers on the loading screen caught the attention of many. While some saw this as a nod to the sixth installment of the Black Ops series, others speculated that the artwork was generated by AI due to the unrealistic depiction of hands.
Some fans generously suggested that the additional digit could be a visual illusion caused by the background or loose skin, rather than a genuine sixth finger. The teeth and moustache of Santa in the image have also been subject to scrutiny.
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Another image featuring a gloved hand holding out Gobblegum has also sparked discussion among fans for its unusual depiction of digits. One player stated, “It’s very clear that the game is full of AI,” highlighting the dissatisfaction among some players with the game’s visual elements.
Last week, Activision announced a seven-day free trial for Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, starting on Friday, 13th December, and available on Xbox, PlayStation, and PC. This move aimed to attract players who have not yet purchased or played the game. The decision to offer a free trial reflects the industry’s hesitancy to take risks and innovate, as noted by Chris Tapsell in Eurogamer’s review of Call of Duty: Black Ops 6.