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The much-anticipated Call of Duty Black Ops 6 is set to release this year, and fans are eager to know what the game will bring. Call of Duty has been a yearly release since 2005, and 2024 will be no different. However, this installment is special, as it will be the first since Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard and the Call of Duty franchise in October 2023. Here’s everything we know so far about the release, features, and gameplay of Call of Duty: Black Ops 6.
When Will Black Ops 6 Be Released?
Activision has maintained a consistent release schedule for Call of Duty games, typically launching new installments in October or November. Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 will be released on Friday, October 25, 2024. Unlike previous years, there will be no early access to the campaign, but players can expect pre-loading to begin on all platforms ahead of the launch.
For those eager to dive in early, the game’s new user interface (UI) will go live on October 21, 2024, giving players time to get familiar with the revamped design before the official release.
Which Platforms Will Black Ops 6 Be Available On?
Black Ops 6 will be available on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC. Although Microsoft now owns Activision, the game will not be exclusive to Xbox. A multi-year agreement with Sony ensures that Call of Duty will continue to be available on PlayStation until at least 2030.
There have also been discussions about bringing Call of Duty to Nintendo Switch, though it remains unclear how the game would run on the current hardware, given its lower technical capabilities compared to PlayStation and Xbox. With rumors about a Switch 2 console on the horizon, it’s possible that Call of Duty could find its way to future Nintendo platforms.
Will Black Ops 6 Be Available on Xbox Game Pass?
Yes, Black Ops 6 will be available on Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass for subscribers at launch. However, those with Game Pass Core or Game Pass Standard subscriptions will not have access to the game. This inclusion of Call of Duty in Game Pass is a significant move by Microsoft, as it could help drive subscriptions and solidify Xbox as a key platform for the Call of Duty series.
What Improvements Can Players Expect?
Activision has promised a range of improvements with Black Ops 6. One notable update is the new Call of Duty HQ user interface, designed to make the game more intuitive and easier to navigate. Additionally, download sizes for the game will be smaller, making it more accessible for players with limited storage space.
Another significant improvement is that Call of Duty: Warzone will no longer be bundled automatically with new Call of Duty titles. This change gives players more control over their installations, allowing them to opt out of Warzone if they prefer to focus solely on the main game.
What’s the Story of Black Ops 6?
Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 takes place during the Gulf War, a pivotal period in history. The game has been described as a spy thriller that keeps players guessing about who they can trust and what is real. The storyline is closely tied to the events of the Cold War and the aftermath of the Berlin Wall’s fall, offering a rich narrative that connects to previous Black Ops titles, particularly Black Ops 2.
Famous historical figures such as Bill Clinton, George H.W. Bush, and Saddam Hussein make appearances in the game’s live-action trailer. Players will navigate through a complex web of covert operations, uncovering secret missions and off-the-record activities.
Characters in Black Ops 6
Fans will be excited to learn that Frank Woods, a beloved character in the Black Ops series, is returning. However, Woods is no longer the soldier he once was—he’s now in a wheelchair after his battle with Raul Menendez. While Woods may no longer be active in the field, he continues to assist the CIA from his base of operations.
Woods’ new protege is Troy Marshall, a methodical leader with a strong sense of morality. The game also introduces Jane Harrow, a fearless CIA handler, and the wildcard Russell Adler, whose motives are still shrouded in mystery.
What’s New in Multiplayer?
Multiplayer remains a key feature of the Call of Duty experience, and Black Ops 6 introduces several innovations. The new Omnimovement system allows players to sprint, slide, and dive in any direction. This fluid movement system adds a new layer of strategy, as players can now go prone and rotate 360 degrees for more tactical positioning.
The game also introduces an expanded hit zone system, with more than twice the number of regions to target compared to previous games. This means players can experience a wider variety of animations based on where enemies are hit, making each battle feel more dynamic.
In total, there will be 16 multiplayer maps at launch, including 12 core 6v6 maps and four Strike maps for smaller matches like 2v2. Fans of the classic Prestige system will be happy to know that it’s returning, allowing players to unlock new levels and rewards as they progress through the game.
Will Zombies Return in Black Ops 6?
Yes, Zombies mode is back and better than ever. Black Ops 6 reintroduces the classic round-based Zombies mode, which has been a fan favorite for years. There will be two new Zombies maps at launch—Liberty Falls and Terminus—with more expected to be added through downloadable content (DLC).
Players will face waves of undead enemies, with plenty of opportunities to earn power-ups and push their skills to the limit. The round-based mode promises countless hours of fast-paced action and challenges.
Beta and Pre-Orders
The multiplayer beta for Black Ops 6 took place in late August and September and was the most popular Call of Duty beta ever, breaking records in total players, playtime, and matches. Players who participated in the beta have provided valuable feedback that will be reflected in the final version of the game.
Pre-orders for Black Ops 6 are available now, and players who pre-order will receive exclusive in-game rewards. With the game launching on October 25, now is the perfect time to secure your copy.
Final Thoughts
Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 promises to be one of the most exciting releases in the franchise’s history. With new gameplay innovations, a gripping campaign set during the Gulf War, and the return of fan-favorite modes like Zombies, the game is poised to deliver a thrilling experience for both new and returning players.
As we get closer to the release date, more information about Black Ops 6 will become available, so stay tuned for updates on gameplay, features, and more. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the series or a newcomer, Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 is shaping up to be a must-play game in 2024.
