Early Release Leak: Call of Duty 2026 for Next-Gen Xbox

Key Takeaways

1. Call of Duty 2026, likely Modern Warfare IV, will not be available on current consoles and is being developed for the next generation of Xbox.
2. The game will feature a new engine to fix visual issues from MWII and will return to a classic user interface rather than the style used in Black Ops 6.
3. TheGhostOfHope is a credible source, having accurately leaked information about previous Call of Duty titles, and is followed by industry experts.
4. Microsoft has completed the design of its next Xbox console, suggesting it is moving towards production and could launch sooner than expected.
5. Community skepticism exists regarding the 2026 launch, with many believing it may be risky and that the next Xbox could face competition from a PlayStation 6 release.


According to a source known as TheGhostOfHope, the upcoming Call of Duty 2026, which is probably going to be Modern Warfare IV, won’t be available on current gaming consoles. Instead, it’s being developed using dev kits for the next generation of Xbox. This info was shared in a post on X on March 3, 2025.

New Engine and Interface

The rumor indicates that Call of Duty 2026 will feature a new engine aimed at correcting visual problems seen in MWII. Furthermore, a more classic user interface will make a comeback, similar to what was found in older games, rather than the style used in Black Ops 6. A significant update for loyal fans is that if the new Warzone map, Verdansk, does not succeed in the long run, there may not be a Warzone 3 at all.

The Source’s Credibility

TheGhostOfHope is a recognized name in the gaming world, having previously leaked correct information regarding Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 and Black Ops 6. Even industry experts like Tom Henderson and Jez Corden are known to follow his account. Back in January 2025, TheGhostOfHope also mentioned that Microsoft’s next Xbox would be launched by the end of 2026, while most people think it will be in 2028. Jez Corden, who has insider knowledge, disagreed with this prediction, but this latest Call of Duty leak might lend support to an earlier launch possibility.

Microsoft’s Console Plans

In the beginning of 2025, several insider reports stated that Microsoft had completed the design of its upcoming console. A report from Windows Central also suggested that production costs had already been figured out. This implies that the new Xbox is past the idea stage and is now on the path to production and release.

Microsoft’s changing strategy for consoles hints at an earlier launch date. While Sony has put out a mid-gen upgrade with the PlayStation 5 Pro, Xbox leader Phil Spencer has frequently said that Microsoft is not looking to make “incremental hardware” updates. The next Xbox is expected to represent a substantial leap in technology. With Xbox sales not growing, Microsoft might try to regain its market share by introducing new hardware sooner. A big exclusive like Call of Duty 2026 at launch could make the console much more attractive to gamers.

Community Reactions

However, many in the Reddit community are doubtful about this leak, with many believing that the next Xbox will debut in 2027 or later. Launching a new console as soon as 2026 is viewed as a risky strategy, since Sony could counter with a more advanced PlayStation 6 later on. This situation could mean that any competitive edge Microsoft gains may be temporary.

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