As we move into 2024, the anticipation for the next installment in the Call of Duty series is mounting, especially since this will be the first release under Microsoft's ownership following its acquisition of Activision Blizzard in October 2023. Here's a rundown of all the details we have so far about the upcoming Call of Duty 2024.
Release Window and Platforms
Traditionally, Call of Duty titles launch in October or November, and CoD 2024 is expected to follow suit with a possible showcase during the Xbox Games Showcase on June 9. The game, rumored to be a new entry in the Black Ops series, is anticipated to release in October based on various reports.
CoD 2024 will be available on Xbox and PlayStation consoles, and PC. Despite Microsoft's acquisition of Activision, they have struck a 10-year deal ensuring that Call of Duty remains on PlayStation systems until at least 2030. There's also talk of bringing Call of Duty games to the Nintendo Switch, though the specifics, such as the performance trade-offs for the less powerful console, remain unclear. The possibility of it appearing on the rumored Switch 2, expected by March 2024, adds another layer of intrigue.
Xbox Game Pass Inclusion
A significant question hanging over CoD 2024 is whether it will be available on Xbox Game Pass at launch. Microsoft has promoted Game Pass by including all first-party games upon release, but there has been no official confirmation regarding Call of Duty. Internal debates within Microsoft about this issue continue, as there are financial implications to consider. However, placing CoD on Game Pass could boost subscriptions and enhance Xbox's appeal as the preferred platform for the franchise.
Rumored Story, Setting, and Features
CoD 2024 is rumored to return to the Black Ops storyline with a campaign that might include events from the Gulf War. This installment is expected to continue Call of Duty's tradition of spanning various locations and time periods. The development cycle for this game is reportedly four years, the longest in the franchise's history, potentially allowing for a more polished final product compared to the hurried 18-month development of 2023's Modern Warfare III.
The new title might feature open-world-style missions inspired by those in Modern Warfare III but developed from the ground up to better integrate this gameplay style. Comparisons have been drawn to Far Cry in terms of map navigation, with options for vehicle-based travel and a fast-travel system.
Development Team
Insider Gaming reports that Raven Software is leading the development of the campaign, while Treyarch is in charge of multiplayer and Zombies modes. Activision typically utilizes a collaborative approach across its various studios for each Call of Duty release, and this year appears to be no different.
Conclusion
As the first Call of Duty game post-Microsoft's acquisition, CoD 2024 is under significant scrutiny. The game promises to blend traditional Call of Duty elements with new innovations, possibly redefining the series under new corporate leadership. Stay tuned as we await official announcements and further details, which will hopefully clarify many of the uncertainties and rumors currently circulating.
