Like FIFA and Assassin’s Creed (with occasional exceptions), Activision’s prominent game series Call of Duty is a recurring annual release. Following last year’s World War II installment, this year’s entry marks the fourth iteration in the Black Ops series (stylized as IIII). A significant departure is the absence of a dedicated single-player campaign (though a zombie mode is included). The game incorporates the popular 100-player Battle Royale mode, a familiar concept from titles such as PUBG and Fortnite.
Having followed Call of Duty: Black Ops 4 since its initial reveal, it was evident early on that the game would be technically proficient. This installment heavily emphasizes multiplayer gameplay, drawing inspiration from titles like Overwatch with its team-based mechanics and class system. Players can now contribute to victory through support roles like medic or scout. While some may argue that multiplayer has always been the core of COD, this reviewer has traditionally enjoyed the engaging, albeit scripted, single-player campaigns. The absence of a solo experience is particularly felt within the context of the Black Ops series, known for its secret missions and confrontations with figures like Manuel Noriega (as seen in Black Ops 2). While some may not miss the single-player mode, arguing that it had become excessively extravagant in entries like Ghosts and Advanced Warfare, its omission is a notable loss for this reviewer. However, COD: BO4 does offer other compelling features.
Wingsuit flying is reminiscent of games like Just Cause 3, though not as refined here.
The game’s performance is a major highlight. As expected, graphical and audio fidelity continue to improve, resulting in an increasingly immersive and visually impressive experience. The advancements raise anticipation for the capabilities of the next console generation (Activision has hinted that the next COD installment will appear on the “next Playstation”). The controls remain exceptionally responsive, a hallmark of the COD series, and the shooting mechanics are highly satisfying. The PS4 Pro version delivers a solid frame rate, but its resolution and detail fall somewhat short. The Xbox One X version offers superior performance, boasting a consistently smooth 60 fps frame rate and noticeably improved resolution and detail. This is particularly advantageous in the expansive Black Out maps (the game’s Battle Royale mode), where spotting distant players is crucial. The game exhibits a polished, well-optimized, and expertly coded design. Treyarch’s experience, combined with contributions from Beenox and Raven (whose PC expertise aided in developing COD: BO 4 from the ground up for PC), has undoubtedly contributed to the optimization of the Xbox One X version.
COD: BO 4 offers visually impressive and smooth performance on capable consoles.
Loading times are acceptable, though slightly longer than ideal, making an SSD a worthwhile investment, as it can significantly reduce wait times. The PS4 version demonstrates faster matchmaking capabilities, swiftly populating teams with online players. This is a significant factor to consider when choosing a platform, especially given the game’s multiplayer focus (assuming ownership of both consoles). The game also supports local split-screen co-op, a welcome feature that evokes a sense of nostalgia. The decline of shared in-person gaming experiences, replaced by isolated online interactions, represents a loss in the gaming landscape.
The Zombie mode provides the closest approximation to a single-player experience in this iteration.
Call of Duty: Black Ops 4 does not revolutionize the franchise or the FPS genre. It adheres to established and successful core elements: accessible and fast-paced combat, while incorporating elements from other popular titles. The Battle Royale mode integrates seamlessly into the series, and despite the mode’s increasing prevalence, Treyarch’s implementation is exemplary. The Xbox One X version offers the best technical performance, while the PS4 (Pro) provides a superior multiplayer experience. However, the absence of a solo campaign is keenly felt. While these campaigns were scripted, over-the-top, and perhaps iterative, they were consistently engaging. Considering the cost savings associated with omitting the single-player mode, it is hoped that Activision will recognize its long-term value and reinstate it in future installments. Ideally, the next edition will offer both.
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