What's Happening?
Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 has experienced a smaller launch compared to previous entries in the series, with lower physical sales in the UK than Battlefield 6. The game also has the lowest Metacritic user
score for a Call of Duty title. Activision's response to the release has been muted, with less enthusiastic social media posts compared to previous years. The game has faced criticism for its use of generative AI, prompting US Congressman Ro Khanna to call for AI regulations in the gaming industry.
Why It's Important?
The underperformance of Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 highlights the challenges faced by established franchises in maintaining consumer interest and sales. The controversy surrounding AI use in the game underscores the ethical and regulatory issues associated with AI in gaming. For the industry, this situation may prompt discussions on the role of AI in game development and the need for clear guidelines. The muted response from Activision suggests a shift in marketing strategies, potentially impacting future releases.
