Activision has consistently released a new Call of Duty game annually since 2005, and this tradition will persist in 2024 with the forthcoming installment in the main series. However, 2024's Call of Duty game, titled Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, stands out as particularly significant. This is due to it being the first major release since Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard and the Call of Duty franchise in October 2023. The game will be available on both Xbox and PlayStation consoles, thanks to a multi-year agreement (though Nintendo Switch compatibility remains uncertain). Furthermore, Game Pass subscribers, particularly those on the highest tier, will gain access to Black Ops 6 at launch.

Black Ops 6 also introduces a robust Zombies mode developed by Treyarch, featuring the return of the beloved round-based gameplay. Additionally, it will integrate with Call of Duty: Warzone and Call of Duty: Warzone Mobile, sharing updates and progression. Here's a comprehensive overview of what we know so far about Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, with updates to follow as new details emerge.

Historically, Activision launches new Call of Duty games in October or November, and 2024 is no exception. Black Ops 6 is set to release on Friday, October 25, with no early access to the campaign. For precise global launch times and preloading details, visit the official page. Notably, the game's new UI will go live on October 21, ahead of the official launch.

Black Ops 6 will be available on PlayStation, Xbox consoles, and PC. Despite Microsoft's ownership of Activision, the company has no plans to make Call of Duty exclusive to Xbox. Instead, Microsoft and Sony have agreed on a 10-year deal to keep Call of Duty on PlayStation beyond 2030. Microsoft has also discussed potential Call of Duty releases on Switch, though specifics remain unclear.

Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass subscribers will have full access to Black Ops 6 at launch, excluding those on the Game Pass Core or Standard tiers. Industry analysts debate whether Microsoft's inclusion of Call of Duty on Game Pass could boost subscriptions or lead to financial losses. Activision announced various enhancements to the Call of Duty experience on August 15, including reduced download sizes and improved UI.

Black Ops 6 is set during the Gulf War, potentially affecting its availability in Kuwait. The game's campaign is described as a spy thriller, featuring a complex narrative set in the aftermath of the Cold War. Key characters include Frank Woods, now wheelchair-bound, and his protégé Troy Marshall. The game introduces a central base, The Manor, and a new movement system called Omnimovement.

Multiplayer features include 16 new maps at launch, with the classic Prestige system returning. Weapons and cosmetics from Modern Warfare III will not carry over, ensuring a level playing field. Zombies mode returns with traditional round-based gameplay and two initial maps, with more expected via DLC.

A multiplayer beta for Black Ops 6 took place in late August and September, becoming the most popular Call of Duty beta to date. Raven Software is developing the campaign, with Treyarch handling multiplayer and Zombies. Pre-orders are available, with GameSpot offering a detailed guide to assist with purchasing decisions.

Source link:   https://www.gamespot.com