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Call of Duty: Black Ops 6has been the most successful title of the series in recent history. But alongside all its positives, it also comes with some massive drawbacks, including the recent AI controversies. Voice actors involved in the Zombies mode have quit over concerns related to AI exploitation, leading to fan backlash.
Activision has responded with a cautious statement, citing respect for performers’ choices while seeking a “mutually beneficial outcome.” However, the absence of transparency and the apparent use of AI-generated voice lines have raised ethical and creative concerns that the studio has to address in a better way.
Activision’s response to theBlack Ops 6cast quitting is a bit underwhelming
The issues initially started when updates toBlack Ops 6Zombies introduced new voice lines that players noticed sounded markedly different. Characters like William Peck and Samantha Maxis, previously voiced by Zeke Alton and Julie Nathanson,now appear to have been recast.
RUMOR: Almost all of the voice actors in the zombies crew of Black Ops 6 Zombies have apparently pulled out of working over the lack of protection against AI in their contracts.It is likely we will see more recasts soon, especially in future maps.Per@TheGhostOfHopepic.twitter.com/lLlIqaZFFc
Alton confirmed toGameDeveloperthat he did not reprise his role and raised concerns about the lack of transparency. Nathanson remains credited, though it’s unclear which lines are hers. For many, this development symbolizes the growing unease around AI in creative roles.
Call of Duty Banking On Squid Game 2 Crossover to Revive Black Ops 6 Feels Desperate and Uninspired
The controversy ties into the larger SAG-AFTRA strike, which began in July 2024 and centers on AI protections for video game performers. WhileBlack Ops 6is not technically a struck production due to existing union agreements, many actors have chosen not to renew their contracts in solidarity.
Players have noticed problems outside of just the voice-acting
Fans have responded by immediately calling for more transparency. Many have called for Activision and Treyarch to implement stronger AI usage policies and ensure human-driven creativity. Without clear safeguards against AI overreach, Activision risks alienating the creative talent and players that have defined theCall of Dutyfranchise’s success.
One of the new loading screen customization options added to Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 with Season 01 Reloaded appears to be an AI created image as the Zombie in the image has 6 fingers.pic.twitter.com/635gxenSZ7
This isn’t the only area where Black Ops 6 has faced this issue. In the same period of time, fans started to notice otherin-game assets that seemed suspiciously like AI. The main example that was brought forward was a loading screen artwork of a zombie that had six fingers.
The union representing video game actors has made AI protections a key focus of its strike. Current disputes highlight the industry’s refusal to provide clear safeguards for performers, with negotiators pushing for explicit terms that prevent exploitation. The issue extends beyond voice actors, encompassing motion capture and other creative roles vulnerable to AI replacement.
“Fun always comes first”: Black Ops 6 Devs Justify Their Choice of Adding “outlandish” Skins Because It Maximizes Fun for Players
TheBlack Ops 6controversy offers Activision and other studios an opportunity to set a positive example in AI ethics. By having transparent policies and safeguarding creative talent, companies can ensure a sustainable future for gaming so both players and studios can benefit.
Where do you think Activision plans to take the game? Let us know your thoughts about the situation!
Daniel Royte
Gaming Writer
Articles Published :1370
As part of the FandomWire team, Daniel has followed the hero-shooter genre closely with a focus on titles like VALORANT, Apex Legends, and Marvel Rivals. You can also find him providing insight on the latest AAA titles from Elden Ring to GTA 6 and exploring the world of gacha games like Genshin Impact and Wuthering Waves. With more than 1,000 articles under his belt, you’ll need to look no further for a unique insight into every situation.If he’s not looking for the latest video game news, you’ll find him cheering on Ferrari in the race tracks of Formula 1 or at the theatres for the latest MCU releases.
