Activision has re-released Call of Duty Black Ops and Black Ops 2 on the PlayStation 5, and the latter includes a feature that many expected to be removed: the emblem editor. This tool allows players to use shapes to create custom designs displayed on their profiles. However, its return has already sparked controversy, as users have quickly begun creating offensive emblems.
Emblem Editor Returns After Eight-Year Absence
The emblem editor was last seen in a Call of Duty game with Black Ops 4 in 2018. After that, Modern Warfare removed the feature, likely to align with its more grounded military realism. The re-release of the original Black Ops games on PS5 has brought it back, and the community's response has been predictable. A quick scroll through X and Reddit reveals numerous designs in bad taste, including depictions of KKK members, Nazi insignia, and depictions of Charlie Kirk's assassination.
Activision's Stance on Offensive Content
Activision has stated that it will ban users who create offensive emblems, with stricter punishments for repeat offenders. According to the publisher's support page: "Any user who creates an emblem with sexually gratuitous images, racially offensive material or foul language is subject to penalty." Minor offenses result in a temporary ban from the Emblem Editor and a reset of all emblems. Extreme or repeat offenses lead to a permanent ban from the Emblem Editor and a reset of all emblems.
Community Reaction and Speculation
Prior to the re-release, gamers speculated whether the emblem editor would be cut. One post on X read: "What's the chances they leave the emblem editor feature in the Black Ops 2 port on PS5? My guess is 0.00001%." Despite these concerns, Activision chose to include the feature, aiming to deliver an authentic experience of these classic games. The result has been a flood of offensive content, highlighting the challenges of moderating user-generated creations.
As gaming in 2026 continues to evoke nostalgia with re-releases like Assassin's Creed Black Flag Resynced and the upcoming GTA 6, the return of the emblem editor serves as a reminder of the pitfalls of certain features from the past.
