Key Takeaways:

• Activision uses AI-generated ads to gauge interest in new game concepts
• Fake cover art for Guitar Hero: Mobile, Call of Duty: Zombie Defender, and Crash Bandicoot Brawl spotted
• Survey follows attempted downloads, potentially influencing future game development

The gaming industry's adoption of AI tools continues to expand, with Activision at the forefront of this trend. Recent reports indicate that 52% of developers surveyed work at studios utilizing generative AI tools. Activision has been particularly active in this space, having previously used AI-generated cosmetics in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III and confirming the use of generative AI in Black Ops 6.

Now, the company is taking an innovative approach to market research by creating AI-generated cover art for hypothetical games and sharing them on social media platforms. This strategy aims to assess public interest in potential new titles before committing to full development.

As reported by VGC, these AI-generated advertisements feature mock-up cover art for games such as Guitar Hero: Mobile, Call of Duty: Zombie Defender, and Crash Bandicoot Brawl. When users attempt to download these non-existent games, they are presented with a message explaining the concept and inviting them to participate in a survey.

The message reads: "Thanks for your interest! This isn't a real game, but could be some day! We'd love if you could answer this short survey, which could help inform the potential future of this game. Your feedback really matters to us!"

This approach allows Activision to gather valuable data on consumer preferences and potential market demand for new entries in established franchises or entirely new concepts. It's a cost-effective method of gauging interest without the need for extensive development resources.

However, this tactic also adds to the growing challenge of distinguishing between genuine and AI-generated content online. As more companies adopt similar strategies, consumers may need to be increasingly vigilant when encountering advertisements for new games or products.

For the crash game community, this development raises interesting questions about the potential for AI-driven market research in the gambling sector. Could similar techniques be used to test new crash game concepts or features? As the lines between gaming and gambling continue to blur, innovations in one industry often find applications in the other.

While Activision's approach is currently focused on traditional video game franchises, the implications for the broader interactive entertainment industry, including online gambling and crash games, could be significant. As AI tools become more sophisticated, we may see similar strategies employed to refine and target new offerings in the crash game market.

As the gaming landscape evolves, players and industry observers alike will need to stay alert to these new marketing techniques. The feedback gathered through these AI-generated ads could shape the future of gaming across various genres, potentially influencing the development of more engaging and tailored experiences for players.