The Call of Duty franchise, one of the most iconic video game series of all time, has captivated millions of players worldwide with its fast-paced action, gripping narratives, and competitive gameplay. Since its debut in 2003, Call of Duty has continually set the bar for first-person shooters, evolving in innovative ways while maintaining a commitment to exciting multiplayer experiences. As the series celebrates over two decades of success, let’s take a look at the top 10 Call of Duty games that have defined the franchise and shaped the future of gaming.
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Call of Duty: Ghosts (2013)
Ghosts was a polarizing title in the Call of Duty series, but it still earned its place on this list. The game introduced a new narrative, set in a post-apocalyptic future where the United States was ravaged by an invading force. While the campaign was well-executed, Ghosts is best known for its multiplayer offerings, including the dynamic “Squads” mode, which allowed players to create teams of AI-controlled soldiers. It also introduced the iconic Extinction mode, a fresh take on co-op gameplay that pitted players against waves of alien enemies.
Personally, my favourite, maybe hindsight or even rose-tinted glasses give me this opinion. But this is the game I “tried going pro”. Mostly MLG ladder stuff but it will always have a place in my heart.
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Call of Duty: Black Ops III (2015)
With Black Ops III, Treyarch pushed the boundaries of future warfare with its advanced movement system, featuring wall-running and jetpacks. Although it received mixed reactions from some fans, the game was groundbreaking in its technological innovations and presented a visually stunning experience. The addition of the Zombies mode’s “The Giant” and the engaging campaign made it a notable entry in the franchise.
With the addition of abilities and jet packs. This is defiantly towards to bottom for me, Zombies are probably the only saving grave many years along.
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Call of Duty: Modern Warfare (2019)
A reboot of the beloved Modern Warfare series, this game set new standards for realism and storytelling in the series. Its gritty, hard-hitting campaign felt more cinematic than ever before, tackling the complex issues of modern warfare. The multiplayer was a refined experience with tactical gameplay, and the introduction of the 2v2 Gunfight mode added variety. Its success was cemented with the launch of Warzone, a free-to-play battle royale that became a major hit.
Ah, the introduction of Warzone version 2. Personally, I preferred the first iteration but this is what seemed to propel Cod into the next era. Nothing but fond memory’s playing this especially as this was the height of COVID
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Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War (2020)
Serving as a direct sequel to Black Ops (2010), Cold War brought back familiar faces and introduced a thrilling Cold War-era story involving espionage, covert operations, and the mysterious Perseus. The game’s multiplayer modes were fast-paced, and it also offered a fresh iteration of the Zombies mode, which players loved. The game’s integration with Warzone further expanded the Call of Duty universe and set the stage for cross-game content.
I ain’t going to lie. I either didn’t play this a lot or have forgotten about it.
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Call of Duty: WWII (2017)
After years of futuristic warfare, Call of Duty returned to its roots with WWII, offering a gritty, immersive experience set during one of the most significant conflicts in history. The campaign was emotional and grounded, focusing on the sacrifices made during the war. The multiplayer was a return to basics, with traditional boots-on-the-ground gameplay that was well-received by long-time fans of the series.
Honestly a “What could have been” type game for me. Release night was an absolute mess. But I loved the addition of the Hub, not a big fan of the loot box system. But by the time they sorted everything, the spark had fizzed.
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Call of Duty: Black Ops II (2012)
Black Ops II took a bold step into the future with its setting in the year 2025. Featuring a branching story that allowed players to make decisions that influenced the outcome of the campaign, it was a notable leap in narrative depth. The multiplayer was further refined with new features, such as the Pick 10 system, which allowed players to customize their loadouts with more flexibility. The game is often hailed as one of the most balanced and innovative Call of Duty titles.
Here we are PEAK cod. This game is what many including mine’s teenage life revolved around. You would hurry from school as quickly as you can, boot up this game, and be lost; no cares in the world. No bills, No job, Nothing.
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Call of Duty: Warzone (2020)
While Warzone is technically a free-to-play battle royale spin-off, its impact on the Call of Duty franchise is undeniable. It revolutionized the battle royale genre with its massive map, intense firefights, and strategic mechanics. With cross-platform play and regular updates, Warzone became a hub for players and continues to engage millions globally. It’s arguably one of the most successful integrations of the battle royale genre into a classic shooter franchise.
Now I could give you some spiel about how good Warzone was, but honestly, I didn’t like this new iteration.
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Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 (2009)
A direct sequel to Modern Warfare, Modern Warfare 2 raised the stakes with a more intense campaign and refined multiplayer mechanics. With legendary maps such as Favela and Terminal, this game became a cultural touchstone in the gaming community. The introduction of new killstreaks, like the infamous Tactical Nuke, made multiplayer matches even more exciting and unpredictable.
AMAZING, arguably should be Number 1. However, I do feel like the 2 ahead are the Grandfathers of modern gaming.
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Call of Duty: Black Ops (2010)
Black Ops introduced a compelling Cold War-era story that captivated players with its conspiracy-laden plot and iconic multiplayer maps like Nuketown. Developed by Treyarch, this entry also introduced the fan-favourite Zombies mode, which would go on to become a staple of the series. The balance of strategic multiplayer and thrilling single-player storytelling made Black Ops a standout.
Zombies. While I ain’t the biggest player of this mode, as a person who knows people who are. I appreciate and fully commend what Treyarch has done with this mode.
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Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare (2007)
Widely regarded as the game that revolutionized first-person shooters, Modern Warfare brought Call of Duty into the modern era. With its gripping story, memorable characters like Captain Price, and groundbreaking multiplayer modes, it set the standard for future shooters. Its innovations, including perks, killstreaks, and the introduction of a customizable loadout system, were game-changers for the genre.
Finally, The pièce de résistance. What to say about this game. Classic? Masterpiece? Legendary? All fitting words.
Call of Duty in a Nutshell
From the groundbreaking campaigns to the heart-pounding multiplayer modes, each entry in the Call of Duty series has made its own mark on the gaming world. Whether it’s the tactical gameplay of Modern Warfare, the mind-bending conspiracies of Black Ops, or the revolutionary battle royale experience of Warzone, these games have proven time and again why Call of Duty remains a dominant force in the gaming industry.
I have loved, love, and will fall in llove again with this Series over & over. Hopefully, one day, Call of Duty will return to its grittier, military-focused roots, moving away from the flashy skins and trends influenced by games like Fortnite.
