Tag: Call of Duty

August 10, 2025
Battlefield 6 Open Beta Hits 500,000 Players on Steam After Launch
Key Takeaways
1. Record-Breaking Launch: Battlefield 6’s open beta reached over 500,000 concurrent players on Steam, setting a new record for the series.
2. Surpassing Competitors: The beta outperformed the peak player counts of both Battlefield 2042 and the Call of Duty franchise, including free-to-play titles.
3. Return to Classic Gameplay: The game has been praised for its grounded and realistic gunplay, reminiscent of earlier successful Battlefield titles.
4. Activision’s Confidence: Despite Battlefield 6’s success, Activision remains confident about the upcoming release of Call of Duty Black Ops 7.
5. Beta Issues: Players reported various technical issues, such as missing animations and weapon balancing concerns, although many are still enjoying the game.
Battlefield 6’s open beta has exceeded all expectations, achieving an astonishing peak of over 500,000 concurrent players on Steam just hours after its public beta launch on August 9, 2025.
A New Record Achieved
This incredible milestone has shattered previous records for the Battlefield series, surpassing the all-time peak of 107,376 players set by Battlefield 2042 nearly two years ago. Notably, Battlefield 2042’s open beta had a high of only 156,665 players in 2021.
In addition, the open beta has outperformed the Call of Duty franchise, which reached 491,670 players, including the free-to-play Call of Duty: Warzone and titles like Black Ops 6, Cold War, and Modern Warfare 3. It’s important to mention that this peak number does not include the countless players on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series S|X.
A Return to Form
Battlefield’s resurgence is more than just impressive numbers; EA and D.I.C.E. have finally met the high expectations for a well-crafted, large-scale FPS game that offers grounded and realistic gunplay, echoing the qualities of Battlefield 3, Battlefield 4, and Battlefield: Bad Company 2.
Meanwhile, Call of Duty has focused heavily on extravagant microtransactions for flashy cosmetic bundles, weapon blueprints, and operator skins, which has left many gamers puzzled about the franchise’s direction moving forward.
Activision’s Confidence
Activision seems unfazed by the success of Battlefield 6, as the publisher is confident that Call of Duty Black Ops 7 will stand strong on its own. This title is set to be a narrative sequel to the highly acclaimed Black Ops II, scheduled to launch a month after Battlefield 6’s release on October 10, 2025.
However, it’s challenging to compare the two franchises at this juncture. Battlefield 6’s open beta is free-to-play, similar to Warzone, yet it will retail for $69.99 upon its release, which doesn’t assure sustained player numbers. Still, surpassing Call of Duty’s Steam peak, even if only for a moment, has sparked conversation within the gaming community, with player counts exceeding 521,000 and still rising.
Issues Remain
Nonetheless, the Open Beta is not without its flaws, as players have experienced issues like missing animations, invisible weapons, texture glitches, and screen flickering. Weapon balancing has become a hot topic, with many players claiming that shotguns are overpowered. Regardless, the majority of players seem captivated, as D.I.C.E. has largely fulfilled its commitments, a stark contrast to the disappointment that followed Battlefield 2042’s launch.
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Tags: Battlefield 6, Call of Duty, EA D.I.C.E.
August 8, 2025
Battlefield 6 Will ‘Boot Stomp’ Call of Duty, Says Ex-Blizzard President
Key Takeaways
1. Battlefield 6 has received positive feedback, with many players eager to join the open beta.
2. Mike Ybarra believes Battlefield 6 could surpass Call of Duty this year, citing issues like cheating and large installations affecting Call of Duty’s popularity.
3. Ybarra suggests that competition from Battlefield 6 may motivate Call of Duty to improve its games.
4. Activision remains confident in Call of Duty’s success, viewing it as “too big to fail” despite the competition.
5. The gaming community is closely monitoring the rivalry between Battlefield 6 and the upcoming Call of Duty: Black Ops 7.
Battlefield 6 has received lots of praise, with many fans eager to experience the open beta. Even though some cheaters have managed to slip through, thanks to the kernel-level anti-cheat, players are enjoying their early look at the game. Not only gamers are excited; industry leaders also think Battlefield 6 could be a significant hit, possibly overshadowing what Call of Duty has to offer.
Mike Ybarra’s Take
From 2021 to 2024, Mike Ybarra served as the president of Blizzard Entertainment and he has shared his views on the new Battlefield title. Ybarra expressed on X that Battlefield will “boot stomp” Call of Duty this year. Battlefield 6 is set to release on October 10, and its early access open beta has welcomed a large number of players. Ybarra pointed out that Call of Duty has been declining due to issues like cheating and hefty installation requirements, among other factors.
A Positive Spin
Yet, he remains optimistic, suggesting this could be the wake-up call Call of Duty needs to improve. “But the real win here is CoD won’t be lazy anymore, and we’ll all get better FPS games for it,” Ybarra said. Although the overall feedback is favorable, some commenters disagree, thinking that Call of Duty won’t change and will continue to outsell Battlefield.
This opinion reflects what Activision might feel about Battlefield 6 being a competitor. While Ybarra believes Battlefield 6 will triumph this year, a recent report claims Activision isn’t anxious, as they consider Call of Duty to be “too big to fail.” The upcoming Call of Duty game, titled Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, is expected to arrive later this year, likely in November.
Final Thoughts
Mike Ybarra on X has stirred discussions, and the gaming community is watching closely. With all the buzz around Battlefield 6, it’s clear that both franchises have a lot at stake as they head into the future.
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Tags: Battlefield 6, Call of Duty, Mike Ybarra
July 19, 2025
Call of Duty 2027 to Launch a New Subfranchise, Insider Reveals
Key Takeaways
1. The next Call of Duty game, set for 2027, will be developed by Sledgehammer Games and will start a new subfranchise, separate from Modern Warfare and Black Ops.
2. Gameplay will focus on movement without jetpacks, featuring martial arts elements like karate kicks and chops, and a multiplayer map named Get High.
3. The Zombies mode may not be included in this new installment, leading to disappointment among fans.
4. Community reactions show mixed feelings, with some hoping for sequels to Advanced Warfare or Call of Duty: Ghosts.
5. Details about the 2026 or 2027 installment remain unconfirmed by Activision, while Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 has been officially announced.
The next chapter in the Call of Duty series, Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, is yet to be released, but already there are whispers about a future game. A well-known leaker and industry expert has revealed some insights into what Activision is planning for the 2027 installment. This upcoming game appears to be the start of a new series that will not be linked to either the Modern Warfare or Black Ops franchises.
Game Development Insights
Following the much-anticipated Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, which is set to launch later this year, the 2027 release is expected to be crafted by Sledgehammer Games. This information comes from the credible leaker known as TheGhostofHope on X. Importantly, this new title won’t be another entry in the Modern Warfare or Black Ops series, nor will it be a standalone title. Instead, it is described as a “totally new subfranchise” that will take place in modern times.
Gameplay Features
According to the leaker, the game will emphasize movement, although it will not feature jetpacks. The multiplayer map named Get High will be included, and there is said to be an emphasis on martial arts, incorporating moves like “karate kicks” and “karate chops.” Currently, it seems like the Zombies mode might not be part of this release, although that is the situation as of now. No release date has been disclosed yet.
Community Reactions
Many fans are expressing disappointment with this news, as some were hoping for a sequel to Advanced Warfare or a new entry in the Call of Duty: Ghosts series. Others are also upset about the potential absence of the Zombies mode.
Nevertheless, it’s important to note that this information remains speculative at this stage, and Activision has not confirmed any details regarding a 2026 or 2027 installment. Previous rumors suggested that the 2026 game might be Modern Warfare 4. What is confirmed is that Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 was officially announced earlier in June at the Xbox Showcase, and shortly after, several screenshots emerged online showcasing various game modes and equipment that players can expect.
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Tags: Black Ops 7, Call of Duty, Sledgehammer Games
July 18, 2025
Concerns Grow Over Rumored Release Date for Call of Duty: Black Ops 7
Key Takeaways
1. Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 is expected to release on November 14, 2025, marking one of the latest launches in the franchise.
2. Activision has announced the game through a trailer, with further details set to be revealed at the August 19 Gamescom event.
3. The game, developed by Treyarch and Raven Software, is set in 2035 and will feature a full single-player campaign, multiplayer options, and a co-op Zombies mode.
4. Black Ops 7 will be available on multiple platforms, including Xbox Series X/S, PS4, PS5, and PC, while also being included as a day-one Xbox Game Pass title.
5. The Ghost of Hope suggests that Black Ops 7 may be the last installment without next-gen exclusivity, hinting at potential changes for Call of Duty 2027.
The Ghost of Hope is a well-known leaker who claims to have secret info about the Call of Duty series. His latest forecast is stirring up worries among fans of the first-person shooter genre. Following limited marketing from Activision, the expected release date for Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 might not be until November 14, 2025. This would make it one of the latest launches in the entire franchise.
Previous Game Launches
Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 was released on October 25, 2024, while several earlier games came out in early November. A unique case is Black Ops Cold War, which debuted on November 13 during the tough times of 2020’s pandemic. As The Ghost of Hope pointed out in a later social media update, games with less content tend to be launched later.
Activision’s Announcement
Activision finally spoke about the game with a trailer showcased at the Xbox Games Showcase. Recently, it was confirmed that the title would also be highlighted during the August 19 Gamescom event. This show might reveal the release date for Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, followed by a beta test. Even though many specifics remain uncertain, gamers already have some expectations based on the available clips and past leaks.
Game Features and Platforms
Developed by Treyarch and Raven Software, Black Ops 7 is set in 2035 and includes science-fiction elements. Despite concerns about the game being unfinished, it is expected to feature a complete single-player campaign. Competitive gamers are looking forward to multiple multiplayer options and the return of the co-op Zombies mode.
Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 will be available on the Xbox Series X/S, PS4, PS5, and PC. With diminishing player numbers for Black Ops 6, Microsoft plans to include it as a day-one Xbox Game Pass title. The existence of last-gen versions has lowered expectations for significant innovation. However, The Ghost of Hope believes this will be the last installment that does not embrace next-gen exclusivity.
Future of the Franchise
Additionally, The Ghost of Hope provided some fresh insights on Call of Duty 2027, which may bring some unexpected changes to the franchise.
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Tags: Black Ops 7, Call of Duty, TheGhostOfHope
June 30, 2025
Battlefield 6 Could Feature New Player Movement Like Call of Duty
Key Takeaways
1. Leaks from Battlefield Labs playtests reveal new player movement mechanics, including elements inspired by Call of Duty.
2. A recent video shows players able to aim down sights (ADS) while sliding, with the scope tilting during the movement.
3. The movement mechanics resemble Call of Duty’s omnimovement but are less aggressive, leading to mixed reactions from the community.
4. Many players are concerned about the realism of maintaining accurate ADS while performing dynamic movements like jumping and sliding.
5. The new movement system is still in testing, and final changes may occur before the game’s official release.
There have been numerous leaks regarding the upcoming Battlefield title, primarily from the Battlefield Labs playtests, and we’ve witnessed extensive gameplay videos emerge on the internet. The trend continues with the latest leak providing insights into player movement mechanics and the modifications in progress. It appears that Battlefield is adopting elements from Call of Duty, introducing a more dynamic movement system, which has led to mixed reactions from the community.
Details from the Leak
According to MP1st, the leak initially came from the BF1 Telegram channel but was later shared on the Battlefield subreddit by a user named Old_Doubt5886. The short clip, lasting under a minute, showcases a player in the shooting range executing slides, aiming, and shooting, as well as diving to assume a prone position. Based on the footage, players will have the ability to aim down sights (ADS) while sliding, but the scope will tilt at an angle during the slide and realign when the player stops.
Movement Mechanics Compared
The movement mechanics seem to echo what Call of Duty refers to as omnimovement, although the version seen in Battlefield appears less aggressive. Omnimovement stirred controversy as it enabled players to dive and traverse significant distances while maintaining the ability to aim and shoot in any direction. Many players voiced concerns that being able to ADS while performing jumps and slides felt unrealistic.
Similar sentiments are surfacing in response to the Battlefield leak, with some fans supporting the feature while others express doubt. Realistically, players should not be able to maintain accurate ADS while sprinting, sliding, or jumping, which is exactly what omnimovement permits. Introducing this mechanic in Battlefield could split the player base, as some may find it frustrating and abandon the game, while others might view it as an additional skill to perfect.
Final Thoughts
Nonetheless, it’s important to highlight that this new movement system might not be part of the final version of the game. The developers are currently experimenting with these mechanics and assessing public response, but changes can still happen as the release date approaches.
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Tags: Battlefield, Call of Duty, movement mechanics
June 27, 2025
Black Ops 7 Leaked Screenshots: New Game Modes and Gear Revealed
Key Takeaways
1. Black Ops 7 was revealed at the Xbox Showcase with a cinematic teaser but little information was provided initially.
2. Screenshots from the Xbox Call of Duty app accidentally leaked details about new game modes and equipment.
3. The Overload game mode involves two teams of six players delivering EMP devices to gain points, while Skirmish features traditional 20v20 gameplay.
4. Players will have wingsuits for faster movement, similar to those in Battlefield 2042.
5. The game will not include jetpacks, but will feature an advanced omnimovement mechanic instead.
The latest addition to the Call of Duty: Black Ops series, titled Black Ops 7, was revealed during the Xbox Showcase earlier this month. A three-minute teaser provided a glimpse of cinematic scenes depicting the environment of Black Ops 7, but no concrete information about the game was disclosed. Recently, however, some new insights have emerged through what appears to be official screenshots that highlight new game modes and equipment.
Accidental Leak Reveals Screenshots
According to a post by CharlieIntel on XCancel, the Xbox Call of Duty app mistakenly displayed some screenshots pertaining to Black Ops 7. These images seem to originate from a closed internal playtest (CIP) where chosen players are expected to give their feedback. Among the images, there are indications of a new Overload game mode and a Skirmish feature that accommodates 20v20 players.
Game Modes Explained
In the Overload game mode, two teams, each consisting of six players, must deliver EMP devices to the opposing team’s headquarters to gain points. The Skirmish mode follows a more traditional approach, involving two teams of 20 players. Players will also have access to wingsuits, likely resembling those in Battlefield 2042, which will enable faster movement across the expansive maps.
Jetpack Speculation
One of the screenshots features a character equipped with what appears to be a jetpack. Fans speculate this might actually be a boost pack instead of a true jetpack, as Activision has confirmed that Black Ops 7 won’t include jetpacks. Instead, the game will introduce a more advanced version of omnimovement, a gameplay mechanic first seen in Black Ops 6 and later incorporated into Warzone.
Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 currently lacks a specific release date, but it will be accessible on Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, and PC. It will also be available through Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass on the day of its launch.
CharlieIntel provided this information on XCancel, along with insights from Insider Gaming.
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Tags: Black Ops 7, Call of Duty, Xbox Showcase
April 1, 2025
Warzone Season 3: Disable Crossplay and Enjoy Better Matchmaking
Key Takeaways
1. New Crossplay Matchmaking Control: Players on consoles can now avoid PC gamers in standard multiplayer modes, addressing community concerns about unfair advantages and cheating.
2. Three Distinct Settings: The update introduces three separate crossplay settings for Multiplayer Ranked Play, Warzone Ranked Play, and Unranked Multiplayer modes.
3. Dynamic Adjustments: The system adjusts based on party compositions and resets when the party breaks up, allowing for customized matchmaking experiences.
4. Increased Wait Times: Opting out of PC matchmaking may lead to longer wait times, but many console players may find it worth it for more balanced gameplay.
5. Return of Verdansk Map: The update coincides with the return of the classic Verdansk map, enhancing player experience with familiar grounds.
Activision has introduced a highly demanded feature in Call of Duty: Warzone with the arrival of Season 3. Starting April 3, players on consoles will have improved control over crossplay matchmaking, enabling them to steer clear of PC gamers in standard multiplayer modes. This is a significant enhancement that addresses years of community input about the unfair advantages and cheating issues related to PC crossplay.
New Crossplay Settings
The update brings a completely new crossplay framework, offering three distinct settings tailored for different game modes. These settings can be adjusted separately for Multiplayer Ranked Play, Warzone Ranked Play, and Unranked Multiplayer modes, which encompass Quickplay, Featured, and Party Games.
Adapting to Player Groups
Moreover, this fresh system modifies itself based on party compositions. Each adjustment will automatically reset when the party breaks up. Players can easily locate these settings in the Network Settings menu. While opting out of PC matchmaking may increase waiting times, many console users might view this as a fair exchange for experiencing more balanced gameplay.
Return of a Classic Map
The crossplay updates come alongside the eagerly awaited return of the classic Verdansk map. As noted, Season 3 of Call of Duty: Warzone will launch on April 3 at 9 AM PST / 5 PM BST, giving players a chance to explore the new features and enhancements.
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Tags: Call of Duty, crossplay, Warzone
March 25, 2025
Verdansk Returns: First Look at Warzone’s Iconic Map in Call of Duty
Key Takeaways
1. Verdansk will return on April 3rd with the start of Season 3.
2. The map has undergone a complete overhaul with major technical and visual upgrades.
3. Key improvements include enhanced textures, better rendering, and improved lighting.
4. The layout remains true to the original, with minor gameplay adjustments for better mobility.
5. The return of Verdansk coincides with the five-year anniversary of Warzone.
Verdansk, a beloved map from Call of Duty: Warzone, is set to return. This eagerly awaited map will launch on April 3rd, coinciding with the start of Season 3, which is just around the corner. In preparation for the release, Call of Duty has shared a preview of the revamped Verdansk map.
A Sneak Peek
Call of Duty revealed a first look on their social media platforms –
Originally launched in March 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, Verdansk has undergone a complete overhaul with major technical and visual upgrades for this new season. The new version has been a joint effort by Beenox, Raven Software, and High Moon Studios. It features enhanced textures, better rendering, and improved lighting that includes a high-resolution skybox and more detailed shadows. Environmental aspects such as vegetation, water, and terrain physics have been revamped for a more realistic feel.
Staying True to Its Roots
Despite the updates, the layout stays true to the original map—only minor adjustments have been made to gameplay, like adding more cover in open spaces (for example, between Farmland and Downtown) to enhance player mobility. This is great news since the map keeps its cherished landmarks such as Stadium, Storage, and others, while providing a more refined gaming experience.
The return of Verdansk is particularly exciting as it marks five years since the launch of Warzone. Players can also expect the update to include Warzone’s current movement mechanics for a more fluid gameplay experience.
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Tags: Call of Duty, Verdansk, Warzone Season 3
March 9, 2025
New Xbox Console Expected; Doubts on Call of Duty 2026 Dev Kit
Key Takeaways
1. Phil Spencer reassures gamers that Microsoft is still committed to console development despite challenges faced by the Series X.
2. The upcoming Xbox is speculated to function like a PC, making it easier for developers to create games without specialized hardware.
3. There are mixed reactions among gamers regarding the idea of a TV-friendly PC console, with concerns about ease of use compared to traditional consoles.
4. Compatibility with a wide range of PC games could reduce the need for traditional consoles, but user-friendly navigation remains crucial for popularity.
5. Predictions suggest the new Xbox console may not launch until 2027, and backward compatibility with Xbox-exclusive games is a concern for gamers.
Gamers are buzzing with ideas about what a new Xbox console might be like. Despite the Series X facing some hurdles, Phil Spencer reassures that Microsoft is still in the game when it comes to console development. While there is chatter about a potential handheld device, an insider from the industry describes the upcoming Xbox as a PC that works well with TVs.
Speculations on Development Kits
On the Xbox Two Podcast, Jez Corden discussed rumors about a new Call of Duty game being tested on a development kit for the next Xbox console. Although Corden expressed skepticism about the existence of such a kit, he emphasized how easy this new system would be to develop for. The console would operate like a Windows PC, lacking any specialized software or hardware. Thus, it seems more likely that developers for Call of Duty 2026 have a spec sheet rather than an actual prototype.
Reactions to the Next Gaming System
Corden suggests that Microsoft’s forthcoming gaming device will be a TV-friendly PC. This idea has led to mixed reactions from gamers. Many components are being shrunk down, apart from the Nvidia RTX 50-series and AMD RX 9070-series GPUs. It’s feasible to create a compact PC that fits nicely into a living room. Still, systems like the Series X or PS5 offer a more straightforward gaming experience for users.
A console powered by Windows could bring compatibility with a vast array of PC games. With both Microsoft and Sony releasing titles for the platform, the necessity for a traditional console could lessen. However, not every gamer prefers to manage hardware and fiddle with settings. The ease of navigation with a controller will also play a significant role in how popular the console becomes.
Historical Context and Future Predictions
Many Reddit users have brought up the downfall of Valve’s Steam Machine in response to Corden’s forecasts. However, that mini PC was based on the Linux-oriented Steam OS, unlike Windows. Although there is a vast library on Steam, the flexibility that comes with PCs using Microsoft’s software is what most gamers tend to favor.
Corden predicts that a new Xbox console won’t emerge until 2027. Gamers are worried about backward compatibility with Xbox-exclusive games, an issue Microsoft must address before making any official announcements.
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Tags: Call of Duty, Steam Machine, Xbox
February 2, 2025
Cheating in Call of Duty: Hackers Disconnect Black Ops 6 Players
Activision is facing significant troubles in their efforts to fight cheaters in Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 and Call of Duty: Warzone. Even with the Season 2 update that promised to tackle the issue, hackers have found new ways to disconnect players from matches. A user named ItsHapa shared a video on X showing an in-game tool that methodically boots players from games. As a result, there were so many disconnections that one team had to forfeit.
Popularity Attracts Cheaters
Both Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 and the free-to-play Warzone are known for their exciting and fast-paced gameplay. This popularity makes them prime targets for cheaters who aim to ruin the experience or gain unfair advantages. Cheating in Call of Duty also poses a risk to a thriving esports scene, where huge amounts of money are involved.
Activision’s Response
In light of ongoing criticism, Activision has updated its Ricochet anti-cheat system. This security feature operates at a driver level to smartly identify the use of aimbots and other cheating methods. Since the launch of ranked play in Call of Duty: Warzone back in December, Activision has reportedly banned over 130,000 cheaters. However, the powerful tool highlighted by ItsHapa shows it only takes a few bad actors to disrupt competitive gaming for everyone.
Community Frustration
When Season 2 launched on January 28th, Activision was optimistic that the improved Ricochet anti-cheat would stop cheating attempts. The company accelerated investigations and flagged players who were linked to known offenders. Console gamers also have the option to avoid playing against PC users, where much of the cheating happens. Still, community frustration has reached a peak, as reactions to ItsHapa’s video show.
Activision has not yet addressed the specific mass-kicking tool that is causing such distress among players. According to SteamCharts, which tracks both Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 and Warzone together, there has been a noticeable decline in player numbers since December. It’s evident that gamers may seek other shooting games until the cheating issues in Call of Duty are effectively resolved.
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Tags: Activision, Call of Duty, Ricochet anti-cheat