Amidst reports and fan speculation, Activision has officially confirmed the recasting of several voice actors in Call of Duty: Black Ops 6's popular Zombies mode.  The changes initially sparked rumors when players noticed different voices for familiar characters earlier this winter.

Black Ops 6's Zombies mode, a fan-favorite offering diverse maps and intense survival gameplay, recently introduced the new Citadelle des Morts map. However, the release has been overshadowed by the voice actor controversy.

The confirmation comes directly from Activision in a statement to Game Developer.  Specifically, characters like William Peck and Samantha Maxis have been recast. This decision directly relates to the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike, where voice actors are fighting for better protections, particularly regarding the use of artificial intelligence in replicating performances.

Zeke Alton, the original voice of Peck, expressed his concern not with the recasting itself, but with the potential implications for the future of voice acting and the industry's increasing reliance on AI.

The situation mirrors the broader Hollywood strikes, where actors are resisting the encroachment of AI.  SAG-AFTRA voice actors initiated their strike in July, accusing companies of failing to address their concerns about AI's role in replicating performances, with contract negotiations starting in October.  The use of AI is already evident in Black Ops 6, and experts predict its influence will only grow in the gaming industry moving forward.

This news coincides with Black Ops 6's Season 1 update, which introduced new maps and content.  With Season 2 set to launch on January 28, 2025, players can anticipate further additions, including new maps, weapons, and likely a new Zombies experience.  While the community has praised Citadelle des Morts, joining Liberty Falls and Terminus as the third round-based map, the future of the Zombies storyline and its characters remains uncertain in light of the ongoing casting changes.