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This "Call of Duty" franchise installment takes armed combat into the future of outer space

This "Call of Duty" franchise installment takes armed combat into the future of outer space

Vote: (35 votes)

Program license: Paid

Developer: Activision

Works under: Windows

Vote:

Program license

(35 votes)

Paid

Developer

Activision

Works under:

Windows

Pros

  • Balanced weapon systems with great customization
  • High-quality, visually striking map designs with added vertical elements
  • A campaign with a robust, cinematic science fiction narrative
  • Zombies mode adds humorous, thematic diversity
  • Seamless integration of loading times with cutscenes

Cons

  • Multiplayer fails to enthuse some fans of the series
  • Lack of genuinely innovative gameplay features
  • Dependence on microtransactions in multiplayer
  • Some aspects of the Rigs system disrupt game balance
  • Predictable plot points in an otherwise engaging campaign

Intergalactic Warfare Meets Covert Combat

"Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare" propels players into a future where space battles and boots-on-the-ground combat vie for attention. Despite a lukewarm reception from the hardcore fan circle, the game provides a bold step into sci-fi, marking both a continuity and a departure from the series' storied past.

Sophisticated Weaponry and Equipment

Infinity Ward has clearly put a lot of thought into the weapons and gear available in "Infinite Warfare." The arsenal is extensive and impressively balanced, ensuring that no single class of weapon overshadows the others. Each piece of equipment serves a tactical purpose, allowing for varied playstyles, and the Gunsmith feature enables customization that can adapt to players' combat preferences. However, some may find that despite the futuristic setting, the arsenal lacks truly innovative weaponry expected from such a forward-looking title.

Map Dynamics and Design

As for the battlegrounds themselves, "Infinite Warfare" features a collection of maps that are both varied and visually arresting. The level designs take advantage of three-dimensional space, adding verticality to the traditional COD layout. This creates new opportunities for strategic play, although the focus still heavily favors fast-paced, twitch-based combat. Moreover, Infinity Ward has successfully integrated loading times with narrative cutscenes, making transitions between missions less intrusive and helping maintain immersion.

Campaign Narrative and Space Endeavors

The campaign of "Infinite Warfare" leans heavily into its science fiction premise, delivering a story-driven experience that spans our solar system. Players take on the role of Captain Reyes, a Tier 1 Special Operations pilot helming the Retribution, one of Earth’s last remaining warships. The narrative excels at providing a cinematic feel, complete with zero-gravity segments and spaceship dogfights, though the plot sometimes succumbs to genre clichés.

Controversial Multiplayer Experience

The multiplayer component of "Infinite Warfare" is perhaps the most contentious aspect of the game. While it retains the tight, fast-paced action the series is known for, it has not resonated as well with the loyal fanbase. Criticisms center around certain gameplay mechanics and the emphasis on microtransactions that can impact the competitive balance. The introduction of the Rigs system, customizable suits that grant special abilities, injects some variation but also generates mixed opinions regarding balance.

Zombies in Spaceland

A standout feature, "Zombies in Spaceland," brings a much-needed levity to the game with a campy, 1980s theme park setting that is a stark contrast to the main campaign and multiplayer modes. It offers a refreshing and enjoyable cooperative experience, loaded with pop culture references, a funky soundtrack, and engaging wave-based survival gameplay that has gathered its own following.

Overall Impressions

"Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare" is an ambitious take on the esteemed first-person shooter franchise. While it doubles down on high-production values and cinematic storytelling in the campaign, its multiplayer segment may not live up to the expectations set by earlier entries. With its sights set on the stars, "Infinite Warfare" hits some targets with precision, while others it appears to merely graze.

Pros

  • Balanced weapon systems with great customization
  • High-quality, visually striking map designs with added vertical elements
  • A campaign with a robust, cinematic science fiction narrative
  • Zombies mode adds humorous, thematic diversity
  • Seamless integration of loading times with cutscenes

Cons

  • Multiplayer fails to enthuse some fans of the series
  • Lack of genuinely innovative gameplay features
  • Dependence on microtransactions in multiplayer
  • Some aspects of the Rigs system disrupt game balance
  • Predictable plot points in an otherwise engaging campaign