The ongoing debate surrounding the annual release of video games often leads to the assertion that they are merely ‘ reskins’ or ‘glorified DLC.’ As a long-time player of FIFA, now rebranded as EA FC, I have encountered this sentiment repeatedly. However, I have historically found such criticism somewhat misplaced when directed at Call of Duty. While the series does adhere to a familiar formula, each installment typically introduces enough variation in characters, settings, weaponry, maps, and modes to prevent it from feeling entirely rehashed.
Recently, though, I find myself grappling with the validity of this defense. The franchise’s choice to release back-to-back titles in the Modern Warfare and Black Ops series over the past four years raises questions about its creative direction. Now, with Black Ops 7 underperforming and failing to meet expectations, Activision has announced a shift in strategy.
Activision’s New Direction
In a message to fans, Activision stated, “We will no longer do back-to-back releases of Modern Warfare or Black Ops games.” The company cited multiple reasons for this decision, primarily focusing on the desire to deliver a truly unique experience each year. “We will drive innovation that is meaningful, not incremental,” they emphasized, while hinting at future plans that remain under wraps for now.
The post also acknowledged that the Call of Duty franchise has not fully met player expectations, promising to “deliver, and overdeliver, on those expectations as we move forward.” Although there was no explicit mention of Black Ops 7’s disappointing sales or engagement figures, the very existence of this statement suggests that the game is struggling in a competitive landscape dominated by titles like Battlefield 6.
From my perspective, particularly as someone who favors the multiplayer experience, Black Ops 7 stands out as one of the strongest entries in recent years. Yet, much of its content seems to miss the mark, likely due to the proximity of its release to Black Ops 6. Additionally, the game serves as an homage and spiritual successor to Black Ops 2, leading to a rehash of familiar concepts. My review of Black Ops 7 highlighted these frustrations, particularly regarding its unconventional campaign.
I have long disagreed with the decision to release Modern Warfare 2 and 3, followed by Black Ops 6 and 7, in succession. The similarities between the Modern Warfare titles were striking, and MW3 arguably delivered one of the weakest campaigns in the franchise’s history. Treyarch has clarified that both Black Ops games were developed concurrently by separate teams, rather than repurposing gameplay from one to the other. This approach, while intended to enhance the second title, often results in a lackluster first game, leading to player fatigue by the time the sequel arrives. I am relieved to see Activision moving away from this strategy.
In addressing Black Ops 7 specifically, Activision has promised an “unprecedented” level of post-launch support, despite its initial challenges. “We won’t rest until Black Ops 7 earns its place as one of the best Black Ops games we’ve ever made,” they asserted. To further engage players, the company plans to host a free trial alongside a double XP event next week, inviting skeptics to “experience the game firsthand and decide for yourselves” whether it lives up to the Call of Duty legacy.
For those considering giving it a try, I wholeheartedly recommend it. The multiplayer experience, in my opinion, ranks among the best since Black Ops 4, and overall, Black Ops 7 is not the disappointing title many have portrayed it to be.
