Call of Duty Already Has AI Generated Skins Artists Revealed
Generative AI is becoming a contentious issue in the creative industry. While it has the potential to revolutionize workflows and tackle mundane tasks, its misuse to cut costs and replace human labor has raised serious concerns. Recent revelations from a report by Wired’s Brian Merchant shed light on how generative AI is already impacting major companies like Activision, highlighting both the potential benefits and pitfalls of this technology.
AI’s Infiltration into Game Development
Layoffs and AI Integration:
- Activision has reportedly laid off numerous 2D artists in 2023 and replaced much of their work with AI-generated assets.
- Remaining artists are allegedly required to use AI tools in their work, with mandatory training sessions.
Case Study: Yokai’s Wrath:
- Yokai’s Wrath, a skin bundle priced at 1,500 COD Points (approximately $15), is suspected to include AI-generated art.
- An anonymous artist, pointed out discrepancies in the loading screen artwork’s style and relevance to the 3D skin, suggesting AI involvement.
Efficiency vs. Quality:
- Activision’s strategy seems to be driven by efficiency, with AI generating initial concepts that artists then refine.
- Another anonymous developer, “Violet,” expressed concerns about the declining quality and creative integrity of art produced this way.
The Broader Impact on the Industry
AI Training and Outsourcing:
- AI training has become mandatory for artists, with Activision increasingly outsourcing 3D art assets.
- The in-house team struggles to meet deadlines, highlighting the challenges of reduced human resources.
Financial Motivations:
- Violet critiques the use of AI as a cost-cutting measure, replacing skilled concept artists with cheaper, faster AI-generated alternatives.
- This shift prioritizes profit over the quality and originality of artistic work.
A Glimmer of Hope: Blizzard’s Approach
In-House AI Tools:
- Blizzard, another major player in the gaming industry, is reportedly limiting AI usage to in-house tools.
- Blizzard employees have recently formed a union of 500 members, potentially safeguarding against exploitative AI practices.
Potential Benefits of Generative AI:
- When used appropriately, AI can handle repetitive tasks and procedural generation, streamlining workflows without compromising creativity.
- The technology holds promise for enhancing productivity and innovation, provided it is not misused to undermine the workforce.
Conclusion
Generative AI is a powerful tool with significant implications for the creative industry. While it offers potential benefits in terms of efficiency and innovation, its misuse as a cost-cutting measure threatens the quality of creative work and the livelihoods of artists. Companies like Blizzard demonstrate that AI can be integrated responsibly, balancing technological advancement with respect for human creativity. As the industry navigates this complex landscape, the hope is that AI will be used to complement, rather than replace, the invaluable contributions of human artists.
