The recent Call of Duty: Modern Warfare multiplayer reveal has taken the community by storm. With brand new features and hints of nostalgia, the initial reactions are somewhat optimistic. But what can we expect from a competitive aspect?
Every year, the CoD community eagerly awaits the release of a new title with high expectations. As we return to the iconic Modern Warfare series, fans are hoping for an experience comparable to the 2007 classic.
Despite running on a completely new engine, the gameplay appears to revert back to the franchise’s roots with slower movement and tactical warfare. There was an overall encouraging reaction to the multiplayer reveal, but with one question on everyone’s mind – where is the mini-map?
Various rumours have circulated for the past few months that a constant mini-map will not be a feature in the new game. Only recently has this been confirmed and the reactions are mixed to say the least.
Professional Call of Duty player for FaZe Clan, Trei “Zer0” Morris, voiced his opinion on Twitter, questioning the game’s developers:
Since the reveal, it has become evident that there is indeed a mini-map in the game but not in the way that most thought. A two killstreak will reward the player with a ‘Personal Radar’ which gives that player a mini-map for around 40 seconds. Additionally, the UAV killstreak remains in the game giving the entire team a mini-map as a result of a three killstreak.
It will be interesting to see how this change affects the competitive scene as UAV’s have always been banned in competitive play. However, a recent comment from Infinity Ward’s Studio Art Director, Joel Emslie, suggests that the developers are open to feedback:
The traditional three-lane style maps also appear to have been ditched in an attempt to create a more realistic environment and cater to all types of gameplay. Time will tell if these changes have a positive effect on competitive CoD, or if they will require some major modifications.
Last year, Call of Duty esports adopted a 5v5 format for the first time in its history in an attempt to bring casual and competitive players closer together. As a result, some players are confused by the reveal of a 6v6 format in Modern Warfare public matches. Two time world champion, Patrick “Aches” Price, has “lost FULL” over the situation:
The growth of Call of Duty as an esport has been a huge talking point over the years. Having the same format between casual and competitive players was a big step in familiarising the community with the competitive scene. As franchising enters Call of Duty esports next season, the developers must strike a balance that works for both the general player-base and those right at the top of their game.
As we approach the release of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare, information on the competitive side is sure to emerge. However, as no professional players have had the opportunity to play and provide feedback, we must avidly wait for the beta to get a hands-on experience of this much anticipated game.
When can I play Call of Duty: Modern Warfare?
Early access to the first beta (PS4 only) will take place from September 12th to 14th, with open access running September 14th to 16th.
The second weekend will run from September 19th to 20th (early access) and 21st to 23rd (open access) for both PS4 and Xbox One.
To receive early access you must pre-order the game. If you don’t pre-order, you can still play on the open access days.
The official release date for the full game is October 25th 2019.
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