Treyarch has finally unveiled the highly anticipated Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, set for release on October 25, showcasing its new multiplayer and the Warzone map, Area 99.
Action-packed Movement
Black Ops 6 retains the signature fast-paced and vibrant feel of the series, but this time, it’s enhanced with a brand-new movement system. The game now features “omnimovement,” allowing players to sprint, slide, and dive in any direction. This mechanic lets you perform spectacular moves, like spinning 360 degrees while prone, making you feel like an action hero straight out of a movie.
I was initially worried about this new system because I’m not the kind of player who often uses advanced techniques like bunny hopping or slide canceling. The thought of facing opponents who could outmaneuver me with even more complex moves was daunting. However, after trying it out, I found it surprisingly enjoyable. I loved diving to avoid grenades or taking cover to reload during intense moments of Domination on the Skyline map.
It’s exciting to execute these over-the-top moves that feel straight out of a scripted campaign, yet here they are in multiplayer. Although I’m still getting the hang of chaining movements together, it’s becoming second nature as I play more in the beta.
Fans love when games introduce new ways to move and play, don’t we?
Enhancing the action further is the new Intelligent Movement system. These optional settings, which I recommend trying out, let you tweak basic movements for a smoother experience. It reduces the number of button presses needed, making the game easier on your hands while feeling faster and more fluid.
Timing and decision-making are crucial with Black Ops 6’s movement. Sometimes, an ill-timed dive can leave you vulnerable, but the same goes for your enemies. So far, the new system hasn’t created a massive skill gap, and casual players can still compete effectively. It’s an optional feature that adds flair to your gameplay without being essential to win gunfights.
I do worry that high-skill players will quickly master and exploit this system, similar to slide-canceling and bunny-hopping in previous games. This could create one of the biggest skill gaps we’ve seen in Call of Duty, making it challenging for average players to keep up, especially those joining post-launch.
On a brighter note, the beta includes an omnimovement training course narrated by fan-favorite Frank Woods, helping players practice their new moves.
Fresh Maps and Modes
Unlike Modern Warfare 3, which featured remastered maps, Black Ops 6 launches with 16 brand-new maps. The beta offers a diverse selection, each with a unique look. For example, Rewind takes place in a ’90s-themed shopping center, while Derelict is set in a rundown train yard. Other maps include Babylon, set in ancient ruins, Skyline, a luxury penthouse, and Scud, a desert military outpost.
Treyarch has focused on core 6v6 maps, avoiding large-scale Ground War-style maps. The small-to-medium-sized maps follow the familiar three-lane design, ensuring quick action without clutter or excessive camping spots.
The beta includes classic modes like Team Deathmatch, Domination, and Hardpoint, along with a new mode called Kill Order. In Kill Order, one player on each team is marked as a High-Value Target (HVT). Eliminating the enemy HVT or keeping your HVT alive earns extra points. It’s a fun twist on Team Deathmatch without being as intense as Hardpoint.
Satisfying Gunplay
The beta offers a range of weapons to try, including the versatile XM4 assault rifle and the powerful Jackal PDW submachine gun. While most weapons feel balanced, the Jackal PDW is currently overpowered, but adjustments are expected before the game’s launch.
The time-to-kill (TTK) feels consistent, slightly faster than Cold War’s 150-health system but not too fast. It’s similar to the TTK in Modern Warfare 3. The audio and visual designs are impressive, with guns looking and sounding great. Thankfully, there’s no significant visual recoil to hinder your aim, and the footstep audio is well-tuned.
Visibility is also excellent, with great lighting and clear visuals. Unlike recent Call of Duty games, there’s no issue with washed-out colors or hard-to-see enemies and nametags.
Streamlined Loadouts
The create-a-class system is familiar but now includes a dedicated melee slot, allowing unlimited tactical sprints with a knife. Perks are streamlined into three categories, with classic options like Ghost, Double Time, and Flak Jacket. The Wildcard feature returns, offering additional customization for loadouts.
The Gunsmith is simpler, allowing up to five attachments with straightforward pros and cons. Black Ops 6 uses scorestreaks instead of killstreaks, promoting objective play. Familiar streaks like UAV, Counter UAV, and RC-XD are available in the beta.
Warzone’s New Resurgence Map
Treyarch’s new Warzone map, Area 99, is a small Resurgence map inspired by Nuketown. It tells the origin story of Nuketown through points of interest like a manufacturing facility, nuclear reactor, and underground bunker.
Initially, I thought the map looked dull with its washed-out colors, but the unique Nuketown story and fast-paced gameplay won me over. Area 99 is smaller than Rebirth Island, leading to quick engagements and instant action.
However, don’t expect many new features for Warzone this year. The focus is on improved movement and quality-of-life changes. The removal of Warzone’s backpack system is a welcome change, preventing players from hoarding equipment for the final circle. Armor and ammo satchels ensure you have enough supplies for fights without the backpacks.
Final Thoughts
Overall, Treyarch’s move to a new engine and the extended development time have resulted in a polished multiplayer beta. There are minor server issues and the Jackal PDW needs balancing, but the game feels solid. While I haven’t played enough of Area 99 to give a detailed opinion, it seems like a promising addition to Warzone.
My main concern is the potential skill gap created by the new movement system and powerful attachments, but only time will tell how this evolves. For now, Black Ops 6 redefines Call of Duty’s fast-paced action with omnidirectional movement, making multiplayer a blast.
