Black Ops 7 AI Controversy: Congressman Ro Khanna Calls for Stronger Regulations

Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 has faced heavy criticism since launch, with one of the debates centering on Activision’s use of AI in the game’s art and assets.

COD BO7 AI controversy | Image: Activision

The controversy began when players noticed that several calling cards in the game looked suspiciously AI-generated. Some of these cards, tied to challenges such as “Over Here Buddy”, “Peekaboo”, “Reeled In,” carried a Studio Ghibli‑style aesthetic that many fans argued was too close to what AI art programs commonly produce. Social media quickly amplified the discussion, and the accusations gained traction across the community.

To Activision’s credit, the company responded quickly. In statements shared with XboxEra and Insider Gaming, a spokesperson admitted that AI tools were part of the creative process. “Like so many around the world, we use a variety of digital tools, including AI tools, to empower and support our teams to create the best gaming experiences possible for our players,” the statement read. A similar note appeared on the Steam pages’ AI disclosure. The publisher stressed that human artists still lead development, but the lack of clarity about which assets were AI‑generated has left many players skeptical.

The issue has now reached beyond gaming circles. U.S. Congressman Ro Khanna weighed in on the matter, calling for stronger regulations around AI use. “We need regulations that prevent companies from using AI to eliminate jobs to extract greater profits,” Khanna said. “Artists at these companies need to have a say in how AI is deployed. They should share in the profits, and there should be a tax on mass displacement.”

Ro Khanna reacts to Activision’s AI use in Black Ops 7 via X

Later, he doubled down, stating: “A company replacing artists with AI is not much different than one that replaces truck drivers. AI cannot just be for enriching tech billionaires. AI must be for us, not them.”

AI’s role in gaming isn’t limited to Black Ops 7. Horizon Steel Frontiers developers admitted to using AI "extensively," while Nexon’s CEO defended AI voices in ARC Raiders, saying “every game company” is doing it. These examples highlight how widespread AI adoption has become, though not without backlash from players and industry professionals concerned about job displacement and creative authenticity.

Khanna isn’t new to challenging major gaming companies. He previously launched a petition against Roblox over child safety concerns and vowed to bring the matter before the US Congress.

Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 is now available on PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC.