The 20th-anniversary rewards include an animated Black Ops emblem, a nostalgic 2009 Sensations loading screen, FTAC Recon and Expedite 12 weapon blueprints, the coveted Old School Price Operator, and a Sentinel Task Force weapon sticker. The cross-content system can reuse everything except the level jump coin for the battle pass in the upcoming Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3.
PlayStation users were in for an early treat with beta access starting on October 6, followed by an open phase on October 8. Other platforms will join the fray with early access beginning on October 12, leading to the open stage on October 14. The highly anticipated Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 is slated for release on November 10, available across various platforms.
Beyond the anniversary celebrations, significant changes are on the horizon for Call of Duty: Warzone. Players can expect revamped movement and combat mechanics, enhancing the gaming experience compared to the current version. Sliding mechanics have been refined, allowing operators to cancel a slide, slide farther, and even shoot in Tac-Stance while sliding.
Jumping mechanics have undergone enhancements, enabling higher and faster jumps with quicker aim-down sights (ADS). A new tactical item, the “Stim,” provides a burst of movement speed for evading encounters. Operator health has been increased to 150, promising more reaction time during skirmishes and creating a more dynamic gameplay experience.
The new chapter of Warzone not only introduces gameplay mechanics but also brings back popular User Interface updates. The classic minimap with red dots returns, aiding players with intel similar to Multiplayer mode. Weapon and loot rarity are reintroduced, with a unique color for “Custom Weapons.”
Quality of life updates include the ability to carry each type of ammo in dedicated inventory slots and the automatic wearing of the Gas Mask when equipped into the loadout. The latter can be manually unequipped, stowed away in the backpack, or dropped during intense battles in the closing gas. Contracts have been revamped for easier navigation, featuring new rewards and smaller quality of life improvements.
To cap off the celebrations, an official 20-year celebration trailer has been released, showcasing a montage that reflects on the cultural impact and lasting phenomenon of Call of Duty. The trailer highlights the franchise’s journey over the past 20 years. As the gaming community embraces this milestone, Call of Duty continues to be a trailblazer in the world of first-person shooters.
