Black Ops 7 Developers Used AI Tools, But Creative Process Is Led By Humans, Activision Says

GAMING NEWS

Activision has reiterated that AI tools were used during the development of Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, following the same workflow used for Black Ops 6. The publisher emphasized that AI assists the process, but humans remain responsible for all creative decisions. Earlier this year, Activision stated developers utilized generative AI during production, but “none of that goes in-game.”

“Like many teams around the world, we use various digital tools, including AI, to support and empower developers in creating the best gaming experiences possible. Our creative process continues to be led by the talented individuals in our studios,” Activision said.

The game launched today, November 14, and players quickly noticed Calling Cards with a distinct “Ghibli-style” look—leading to speculation that these images may have been AI-assisted.

Loving the unique style of art they've gone with for these calling cards pic.twitter.com/c583gv4Qpn

On Steam, the Black Ops 7 page discloses that, “Our team uses generative AI tools to help develop some in-game assets.” This is identical to the disclosure on Black Ops 6’s Steam listing. Activision has not specified which assets in Black Ops 7 were AI-assisted.

Call of Duty’s Prior AI Use

In 2024, an anonymous Activision developer told Wired that concept artists were “forced to use AI” as part of their workflow. The report also noted that many 2D artists were laid off that same year during Microsoft’s broader job cuts, though it’s unclear whether AI adoption played a role.

Activision maintains that AI is intended to “streamline” development—not replace humans. Treyarch’s Miles Leslie said any AI-generated content that made it into older Call of Duty titles was “by accident,” referencing past examples fans have uncovered.

What Other Developers Think About AI

A recent global survey found that most game studios are already using generative AI. Arc Raiders previously sparked discussions over AI-powered voice lines, and although Battlefield 6 developers avoided using generative AI in production, EA leadership described such tools as “very seducing” during early prototyping.

Concerns over job displacement continue. EA CEO Andrew Wilson said the rise of AI may cause short-term job losses but will eventually create more opportunities—similar to past technological shifts.

Microsoft has also enacted sweeping layoffs, including major cuts at Xbox. Some former King employees reported they were replaced by the very AI systems they helped create.

Black Ops 7 is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC, and is included in Xbox Game Pass. Despite Microsoft’s recent price increase, most retailers have not yet updated subscription prices.

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