In a surprising shift, Activision has announced that the Call of Duty series will no longer follow the pattern of releasing back-to-back titles in its beloved Modern Warfare or Black Ops franchises. This marks a significant shift in the game’s release strategy.
In a recent blog post attributed to the “Call of Duty Staff,” the company appears to address the lukewarm reception from fans and critics regarding the recently launched Black Ops 7.
“With respect to Black Ops 7, we aimed to create a spiritual successor to Black Ops 2, and our studios have poured their heart into making a game that we’re genuinely proud of,” Activision stated. “But it’s one thing for us to say it, and more importantly, it’s for you to try it and make your own judgment.”
Players have certainly shared their thoughts. As of now, Black Ops 7 holds a “mostly negative” rating on Steam, with users critiquing aspects of the story, multiplayer modes, and overall performance. Additionally, it has one of the lowest Metascores in the series, sitting at a lackluster 67 and an abysmal 1.6 user score, indicating “overwhelming dislike.”
To address these concerns, Activision has introduced a three-pronged strategy aimed at revitalizing interest. First up, there’s a free trial and a double XP weekend beginning “next week,” which will allow players to “experience the game firsthand and judge for themselves” whether it lives up to expectations.
Next, Activision promises “unprecedented seasonal support” for Black Ops 7, although specifics remain vague for the time being. “Season 01 is the largest live season ever, and we’re just getting started,” the company remarks, adding, “We won’t rest until Black Ops 7 achieves its place among the best Black Ops titles we’ve developed.”
Finally, the biggest change comes in the format of game releases. “We will no longer do back-to-back releases of Modern Warfare or Black Ops games,” Activision confirmed. “The reasons are many, but primarily to ensure we deliver a unique experience every year. We’re committed to driving meaningful innovation rather than just incremental updates.”
While more details will emerge “when the time is right,” Activision reassures fans that “the future of Call of Duty looks very promising, and we believe our best days are ahead, thanks to the depth and talent within our development teams.”
Feel like revisiting the classics? Check out our list of the best Call of Duty games.