Call of Duty Accused of Selling AI-Generated Cosmetic

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Call of Duty Accused of Selling AI-Generated Cosmetic

Highlights

  • Generative AI in gaming raises ethical concerns over originality and job security for industry creatives.
  • Activision allegedly used AI to design a cosmetic in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3, sparking controversy.
  • According to Wired, some artists at Activision reportedly forced to use AI and sign up for training, raising fears of job displacement.

As a passionate gamer and follower of the gaming industry, I’ve been keeping a close eye on the recent developments surrounding generative AI in game development, particularly at Activision with their alleged use of it in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3. The idea of using AI to create game content is intriguing, but the ethical implications and potential job displacement concerns are valid and cannot be ignored.

Activision, the company behind the popular “Call of Duty” series, is said to have sold a cosmetic item in “Modern Warfare 3” that was created using artificial intelligence (AI). This AI-generated content, according to reports, has sparked debate in the gaming community. While some see potential benefits for game development with the help of AI, others raise concerns due to its derivative nature. Generative AI often draws from existing works rather than creating something entirely new, leading to ethical and potentially legal dilemmas for creators.

As a seasoned game developer with over a decade of experience in the industry, I’ve seen the landscape shift dramatically with the advent of generative AI. On one hand, I’m awestruck by the incredible advancements in technology and what it could bring to the table for game development. However, I can’t help but feel a pang of concern as I consider the potential impact on my colleagues and me.

According to a recent article in Wired, there have been allegations that Activision offered an AI-created cosmetic item for sale in the in-game marketplace of “Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3.” The specific cosmetic isn’t identified in the report, but it’s known to be part of the Yokai’s Wrath bundle, which was released towards the end of 2023. This bundle contains various items such as an Operator skin, weapon blueprint, calling card, weapon sticker, and a loading screen. The extent of AI involvement in creating these items is uncertain, with some estimates suggesting only one or two cosmetics were generated by AI, while others believe the entire bundle may have been produced this way.

Activision Reportedly Pushing for More Generative AI Use in Game Art Development

Call of Duty Accused of Selling AI-Generated Cosmetic

The Yokai’s Wrath bundle in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 cost 1,500 COD Points, equivalent to $15 USD. However, the game store failed to indicate that this cosmetic was created using generative AI technology. According to Wired, an unnamed artist from Activision revealed that several 2D artists were terminated as part of Microsoft’s layoffs in January 2024, and those who remained were compelled to integrate generative AI into their projects. It is also reported that employees have been required to undergo AI training, with Activision encouraging its adoption throughout various departments.

Neither Activision nor Microsoft have commented on the Wired report’s allegations as of now. However, the gaming community has expressed skepticism and concern about the article’s claims. The use of generative AI to replace creative professionals in the industry has long been a source of apprehension, with Square Enix being among those who have reconsidered their stance on the issue. If Activision is indeed utilizing this technology to bypass artists, it raises questions about when other jobs may be at risk.

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2024-07-24 22:03