Call of Duty Criticized for Weed-Themed Content While Enforcing Strict Toxicity Bans
3 min read
Image via X@ModernWarzone
Activision Blizzard’s Call of Duty franchise has landed in hot water again, this time for what players are calling “double standards.” The controversy stems from the game’s recent marijuana-themed content, including the “Dank Days” Tracer Pack, released as part of the Black Ops 6 and Warzone Season 1 Reloaded update. While the game has faced criticism for promoting cannabis culture, it has simultaneously banned millions of players for using offensive language.
Marijuana-Themed Content Sparks Outrage
The Dank Days Tracer Pack, which launched on December 5, 2024, includes a variety of cannabis-inspired cosmetic items. Highlights of the pack include the “Bongshot” Mastercraft blueprint for the KSV SMG, the “Blunty” operator skin, and other marijuana-themed customizations. This isn’t the franchise’s first foray into weed-related content. Previous bundles, such as the “Stoner’s Delight” pack for Black Ops Cold War and Warzone, also embraced cannabis themes.
Soon you’ll be able to smoke a bong (your gun) in Call of Duty 😚💨🍃 pic.twitter.com/JuL016OqDJ
— ModernWarzone (@ModernWarzone) December 5, 2024
A viral clip featuring a gun designed to look like it’s made of marijuana has reignited criticism. Many players took to social media to point out the perceived hypocrisy of promoting cannabis-related items while banning players for toxic in-game behavior.
Automated Moderation System Draws Ire
In January 2024, Call of Duty implemented an automated voice moderation system designed to reduce toxic behavior in multiplayer lobbies. The system has reportedly been effective, resulting in restrictions for over 2 million players who were found using slurs or engaging in harmful language.
While many applauded the effort to curb toxicity, others criticized the bans as overreach. The backlash intensified with the release of the marijuana-themed update, as some players saw it as prioritizing profit over maintaining a consistent moral stance.
CoD getting backlash for promoting drugs, but banning people who swear. pic.twitter.com/NNLCjbJ4DE
— DramaAlert (@DramaAlert) December 5, 2024
Social Media Reacts
Players were quick to voice their frustrations online:
“CoD be like: ‘Say no to bad words, but yes to bad habits.’ Priorities need a patch update!”
“Society is actually finished. It is 18+ for a reason, though!”
“Weed smokers watching people try to take away their gaming high.”
CoD be like: ‘Say no to bad words, but yes to bad habits, Priorities need a patch update!
— Afan (@M7movic) December 5, 2024
While some dismissed the outrage as overblown, others argued that Call of Duty
This controversy highlights ongoing challenges for Activision Blizzard in balancing creative decisions with community expectations. The company’s efforts to combat toxicity are significant, but the juxtaposition of marijuana-themed content has sparked a debate about the values being promoted.
As Call of Duty continues to evolve, these clashes between gameplay innovation and community standards will likely remain a point of contention. Whether this backlash will lead to changes in the game’s content strategy remains to be seen.
Society is actually finished😭 It is 18 plus for a reason pic.twitter.com/kDYlEmWPxD
— Lulu🎀 (@luanabellex) December 5, 2024
I’ve been chat banned probably 6 times now but this is allowed 🤣🤣
— Dylan Morris (@DylP_003) December 6, 2024
Shivam Kumar
Hi, I'm Shivam Kumar. I'm pursuing Journalism honors from the IP University. I love the skill of writing and looking forward to learn more of it. Also I love traveling and experiencing new things every day....
