December 9th 2024.
The gaming community has been buzzing with chatter about the latest installment of the Black Ops 6 Zombies campaign. However, it seems that players have discovered what they believe to be AI-generated art within the game. Insider reports claim that voice actors have left the project due to a lack of protections against AI technology.
The use of AI-generated art has become a contentious issue in the gaming industry. While some studios see it as a cost-cutting measure, others view it as a way to lay off more people under the guise of technological advancement. While AI can bring some benefits to game development, there is concern that companies like Microsoft and EA, who have fully embraced the technology, may use it as a substitute for hiring voice actors and other artists.
These concerns have come to a head at Activision, as players have pointed out a peculiar image of a zombie Santa Claus on the game's loading screens. Upon closer inspection, it seems that the hand in the image has six fingers, leading many to believe it was created by AI. Another image in the game also shows a gloved hand with too many fingers, causing some players to label it as "AI slop."
One player took to the Black Ops 6 subreddit to express their frustration with the situation, stating that it was "unacceptable at this point." Along with the AI art grievances, the post also references claims from a known Call Of Duty leaker, who alleges that most of the voice actors for the Zombies mode have quit due to the lack of AI protections in their contracts. This has led to some disappointing recasts, such as the replacement of Samantha Maxis' original voice actress, Julie Nathanson, on the Zombies map Citadel De Morts.
The leaker also suggests that more voice actors may be replaced in future updates, with Activision possibly hoping to avoid any major backlash by gradually making changes. While it is unclear if this is the case with the Black Ops 6 actors specifically, it is worth noting that members of the Screen Actors Guild union are currently on strike against video game companies, citing concerns over AI technology.
This isn't the first time Activision has faced accusations of using AI in their games. In the past, a cosmetic bundle in Modern Warfare 3 was also believed to be AI-generated. As the gaming industry continues to grapple with the use of AI, it remains to be seen how companies will address concerns from both players and unions.
In the meantime, players are encouraged to share their thoughts on the matter through various channels, such as email, social media, and our newsletter. To make it easier to submit letters and features, we have a dedicated page on our website for submissions.
As the gaming community eagerly awaits the release of the PS5, Sony has revealed a list of games that will have enhanced features on the Pro version of the console. This includes Black Ops 6 and Dragon Age, among others. In other news, a hot new beta demo is currently outperforming Black Ops 6 and GTA 5 on Steam, showing the ever-changing landscape of the gaming industry. Finally, we take a trip down memory lane and remember one of the biggest sequels in the 00s, which just so happens to be a Call of Duty game.
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