The complete package
It’s that time of year again, not Christmas time; well, yes, it is that season, but I am speaking about the duty we call feel around this time and how we all answer it’s call. That’s right friends, that cumbersome wordplay is to tell you that Call of Duty Black Ops 6 is here and surprise it’s arguably the best the modern CoD has been in a long time. Set during the Gulf War in the early 1990s, the game offers a diverse and immersive journey across its three main modes: multiplayer, zombies, and campaign.
Because I must be a glutton for punishment, year after year I still look forward to the multiplayer portion in each new year’s entry. The gameplay in Black Ops 6 feels incredibly smooth and responsive, thanks to the omni-movement system that allows players to slide and dive in any direction, creating fast-paced and dynamic combat scenarios. You really can’t fully grasp how much of a game changer this movement is until you actually have the controller in your hands. Being able to sprint in every direction and turn that into a slide, dive and more allows for some really cool shots to be mad. Each of the maps feel meticulously designed, offering a perfect blend of open spaces and close-quarters environments, which cater to various playstyles.
MSRP: $69.99
Platforms: Xbox (reviewed), PlayStation, PC
Price I’d Pay: $69.99
The progression system feels good, with a plethora of unlockable items and the return of prestiging, ensuring that players remain invested and motivated to reach new heights. While I like the changes that have been made to the prestige system, I am too old to really use it. I don’t want to have to start over with my weapons, especially when the ones I like don’t unlock until later levels. BLOPS 6 does give players tokens to permanently unlock items that they may want to keep, but again I don’t feel the same rush as I once did go back through the ranks.
The zombies mode in Black Ops 6 is a triumphant return to form, embracing the classic round-based gameplay that fans have come to love. The mode introduces new Gobble Gums, which offer temporary boosts and power-ups, adding a strategic element to the survival experience. The new maps are tightly crafted, featuring intricate layouts with multiple levels and hidden secrets, providing a thrilling challenge for players to conquer. I know that a lot of players play these games solely for this mode, my son being one of them. And he and his friends have had a ball trying to unlock the modes famous easter eggs, which require specific movements and unlocks to witness.
That leaves us with the campaign, and I may have saved the best for last. The campaign mode offers a gripping storyline set against the backdrop of the Gulf War, filled with espionage, intrigue, and high-stakes missions. Players take on the role of elite operatives, navigating through a series of intense and varied missions. The game’s narrative is complemented by stunning cinematics and voice acting, bringing the characters and story to life. One of the highlights of the campaign is the inclusion of historical political figures like Saddam Hussein and Bill Clinton, which adds a unique and immersive layer to the storytelling. The plot is filled with twists and turns, keeping players on the edge of their seats as they uncover the mysteries surrounding the rogue CIA element known as Pantheon. There can be little doubt that this is Call of Duty at its best, truly this campaign has a lot of twists and turns, one minor warning though. There is a part of the story where the game will feel like a survival-horror game, replete with zombies and jump scares, if you are sensitive to these items proceed with caution. For me, the only real issue with the campaign is the overall lack of character development, not all the CIA team gets to shine as much as others, and it’s a shame.
Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 is a stellar addition to the franchise, with its multiplayer and zombies’ modes offering countless hours of entertainment. The game successfully combines smooth gameplay, strategic depth, and immersive storytelling, making it a must-play for fans and newcomers alike. Although the campaign has room for improvement when it comes to character development, it still provides a bombastic and thrilling narrative that complements the other modes. Overall, Black Ops 6 is a testament to the enduring appeal and continual innovation of the Call of Duty series.
Review copy of game provided by publisher.
