The Call of Duty series: ranked from worst to best

Contents:

• Call of Duty: Ghosts
• Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2
• Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3
• Call of Duty: World at War
• Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare
• Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3
• Call of Duty: Modern Warfare
• Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War
• Call of Duty: Black Ops 3
• Call of Duty: WWII
• Call of Duty: Modern Warfare
• Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare
• Call of Duty: Black Ops
• Call of Duty: Black Ops 2
• Worth of mention: Call of Duty and Call of Duty 2
• Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2

Call of Duty: Ghosts

Release Date: 2013.

Game platforms include PC, PS3, PS4, PS5, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Xbox Series S and X, and Nintendo Wii U. These devices offer a variety of options for gamers, providing access to a wide range of games and entertainment. Each platform has its own unique features and advantages, allowing players to choose the one that best suits their preferences and playstyle.

Ghosts is one of the most underrated games in the Call of Duty series. The reasons for this shooter's modest reception are easy to explain: after the successful Modern Warfare trilogy, Infinity Ward decided to take a step back and, instead of focusing on global conflict, focused on the personal stories of military personnel. The story unfolds against the backdrop of a large-scale war on the American continent, but the focus is on a small squad of "Ghosts" and their desire to avenge the suffering of their loved ones. Despite this, Ghosts offers interesting gameplay and unique mechanics that deserve attention. Players are immersed in a gripping world where personal dramas intertwine with military action, making the game a significant entry in the franchise.

The gameplay felt like a departure from Modern Warfare, despite the introduction of a dog control mechanic named Riley. This character assisted the protagonist in reconnaissance, adding variety to Ghosts' stealth missions. Riley also attacked enemies during open combat, adding a dynamic element to the gameplay.

Multiplayer introduced an innovative feature, but it didn't cement this entry in the series' memory with fans. This feature was a destruction system that, while limited, allowed players, for example, to remove enemy cover with a well-placed grenade. The online mode's popularity was also undermined by its controversial map design, which was architecturally inferior to both Modern Warfare and Black Ops, which were actively winning over players at the time.

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2

Release date: 2022.

Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series S, and Xbox Series X.

The second part of the Modern Warfare reboot continues the tradition of a serious approach to the plot, exploring modern military conflicts. This time, players will face an international drug cartel and a terrorist organization seeking to destabilize global power. The game's campaign immerses players in complex political intrigue and tense missions set in various locations, from the deserts of the Middle East to the dense jungles of Latin America. This approach allows for a deeper understanding of pressing contemporary issues and their impact on global security.

Modern Warfare 2, released in 2022, ranks second to last in our ranking. This decision is due to the fact that, despite its status as a high-quality shooter, it offers nothing new compared to the first part of the reboot. The story remains unchanged, the graphics have not undergone significant improvements, and multiplayer battles do not inject fresh ideas. Players can enjoy the game thanks to the same discoveries as its predecessor, but with this in mind, Modern Warfare 2 could have been a large expansion rather than a standalone project.

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3

The release date for this product is scheduled for 2023.

The platform for the game includes PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series S/X. Each of these platforms offers a unique gameplay experience and the ability to enjoy a variety of games. PC provides high customization and powerful graphics capabilities, while consoles like PS4 and PS5 offer convenience and exclusive titles. Xbox One and Xbox Series S/X also provide a wide selection of games and functionality, including backward compatibility. The choice of platform depends on the player's preferences and desired gaming experience.

Releasing in 2023, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 concludes the reboot of the Modern Warfare series. In this game, players are immersed in a world of global conflict, where a squad of familiar characters, led by Captain Price, confronts a new threat: the terrorist and ultra-nationalist Vladimir Makarov. Known for his ruthlessness, Makarov is plotting to unleash large-scale wars across the globe, and Price's squad will have to do everything in their power to stop him. This installment offers a gripping story, dynamic gameplay, and familiar locations, making it a must-play for fans of the series.

In Modern Warfare 3's single-player mode, players enjoy a traditional array of exciting missions set across various global locations. However, as with its predecessor, the storyline suffers from an overly serious tone, which aims to make the story more realistic but may be off-putting to some players. In multiplayer, the main innovation is updated maps, which are reworked versions of arenas from the original Modern Warfare 2, released in 2009. This installment continues to build on the ideas and technological advancements established in the first game of the reboot, offering players improved graphics and deeper gameplay. Modern Warfare 3 continues the series' tradition of combining dynamic gameplay with elements of tactics and strategy.

Call of Duty: World at War

Release date: 2008.

Platforms: PC, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Nintendo Wii. These gaming devices offer a variety of exciting gaming options. The PC provides flexibility and the ability to customize the hardware to suit individual preferences. PlayStation 3 stands out for its exclusive games and multiplayer capabilities. Xbox 360 offers a user-friendly interface and a wide selection of games, as well as integration with online services. Nintendo Wii emphasizes interactive gameplay and innovative touch controller controls. The choice of platform depends on the player's preferences, allowing everyone to find the ideal option for a comfortable and exciting gaming experience.

In 2008, following the triumph of the "modern" Modern Warfare, Call of Duty: World at War returned the series to the events of World War II. The story campaign focuses not on the Normandy landings, but on the Pacific campaign, where American troops fight the Japanese army, as well as the advance of Soviet soldiers on the Eastern Front. The game has a more serious and dark tone compared to previous parts, and the plot is filled with violent scenes, especially in episodes dedicated to battles with Japanese forces. These changes made Call of Duty: World at War a mature and memorable entry in the series, introducing new themes and emotional depth.

The game featured a multiplayer mode that combined elements of online combat from the original games and 2007's Modern Warfare. However, despite this, it wasn't significantly expanded. A key addition was the cooperative Zombies mode, where players had to fend off waves of undead. While this mode seems rather primitive by today's standards, it laid the foundation for one of the core elements of the Call of Duty series. Today, Zombies campaigns are filled with engaging lore and a variety of elements, but back then, players were tasked with simply eliminating monsters and sealing windows through which enemies were entering. Despite its simplicity, this mode has gained immense popularity, earning World at War a well-deserved place in the history of the gaming industry.

Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare

Release date: 2014. This year saw many significant events in various fields, including cinema, music, and technology. The film industry released iconic films that won popularity with audiences and critics. Music artists presented hits that became classics, and tech companies announced innovative products that changed the market. This year became an important stage in the development of culture and technology, leaving a mark on history.

Platforms: PC, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Xbox Series S, and Xbox Series X.

During the development of Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare, the game was actively positioned as a project set in the future, which became a key element of the advertising campaign. Although a futuristic setting was not new to the series – Black Ops 2, released two years earlier, also featured missions set in the near future – Advanced Warfare was the first installment in which futuristic elements had a significant impact on gameplay and introduced new mechanics. The game introduced innovative features, such as exoskeletons, which changed the approach to combat and strategy on the battlefield. Thus, Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare not only expanded the series' horizons but also set new standards for future games.

Advanced Warfare is set in 2054, when leading governments have lost their power, and much of the power is concentrated in the hands of corporate leaders. One of the key corporations is Atlas, led by technocrat Jonathan Irons, played by actor Kevin Spacey. This corporation demonstrates how technology and private interests can influence global security and political structures in the modern world.

At first, he inspires trust, but over time, he begins to question his beliefs and ultimately becomes the game's main antagonist. He is forced to confront former American soldier Jack Mitchell, who was seriously injured in one of the battles. This dynamic between the characters creates tension and intrigue, forcing the player to consider the moral side of the conflict and what it truly means to be a hero in wartime.

After being wounded, Atlas offered Mitchell a new job and, more importantly, a unique technology—an exoskeleton that grants the user incredible strength and agility. This exoskeleton allowed him to perform impressive leaps and maneuver across the battlefield with a speed and reflexes beyond those of ordinary soldiers.

Advanced Warfare's key innovation was its advanced movement system. While wall running wasn't yet available in this game (a feature that would appear in Black Ops 3), double jumps and sprinting significantly changed the designers' approach to creating gameplay environments. Levels became more vertical, giving players the opportunity to effectively utilize their new skills. These changes affected not only the story campaign levels but also online arenas, where players now need to track enemy movement in both horizontal and vertical planes. This added a new level of strategy and dynamics to the gameplay, making the game more engaging and intense.

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3

Release date: 2011

Platforms for the game include PC, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Xbox One, and Xbox Series S and X. These devices offer a variety of gaming experiences, giving users access to a wide range of games and content. The choice of platform depends on the player's preferences and available options. PC provides flexibility in settings and graphics, while consoles such as PS3 and Xbox offer convenience and ease of use. Xbox Series S and X represent the latest generation of consoles, offering improved performance and graphics.

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 was a landmark moment in the series' history, introducing a spectacular and intense story campaign. The game concluded the epic chronicle of a global war, moving the action to the largest cities of the world's leading countries. From the very beginning, players take on the role of an American soldier who defends New York from a Russian invasion. After this, events unfold rapidly, and we find ourselves in the role of a security guard who protects the Russian president from an ultra-nationalist attack. Thus, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 offers a unique combination of dynamic gameplay and a gripping storyline that leaves an unforgettable experience.

More to come. Special operations in London, large-scale battles in Paris engulfed in flames, firefights in Berlin, and an assault on a castle near Prague—it's no coincidence that the developers stylized the game's name during the advertising campaign as WW3, inverting the letter M in the acronym MW3. The fictional war truly took place on a global scale, immersing players in an atmosphere of international conflict and a tense struggle for survival.

Modern Warfare 3's gameplay didn't introduce any fundamentally new elements to the Call of Duty series. This may seem unusual, given that the series rarely changes, but noticeable changes from one installment to the next are not uncommon for the franchise. In MW3, the developers relied heavily on the ideas and mechanics of Modern Warfare 2, without introducing any significant innovations. While there were attempts to diversify the game in multiplayer, for example, through minor changes to the class system, this didn't lead to any fundamental changes in gameplay. In addition, the online maps were less successful than those in MW2. As a result, despite the presence of new elements, the game failed to offer a fresh experience for fans of the series.

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare

Release date: 2019

Game platforms include PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series S/X. These devices offer a wide variety of games and features for users. PC provides flexibility and customization, while consoles such as PS4 and PS5 offer a convenient gaming experience with exclusive titles. Xbox One and Xbox Series S/X also provide players with access to a variety of games and services. The choice of platform depends on the preferences of players and their gaming habits.

In 2019, Activision decided to reboot the Modern Warfare trilogy, which became the basis for the Call of Duty series. The name of the new project remained unchanged, which, on the one hand, is understandable, but on the other, it created certain difficulties. Now, when discussing any of the games in the Modern Warfare series, it is necessary to clarify which part exactly we are talking about. The situation is complicated by the fact that the key characters from the original trilogy remained the same, which leads to additional clarifications, for example, "Captain Price from the 2019 game, and not from the 2007 original." This creates confusion among players and reviews, making it important to highlight the differences between the versions and their stories.

Unfortunately, the new version failed to achieve the same revolution that the first game in the MW series brought. Despite having all the necessary prerequisites, the reboot failed to repeat the success of the original. The new version completely redesigned the gameplay mechanics, used modern technology, animations and effects, which allowed to raise the level of shooting to a more realistic level. The graphics have also undergone significant improvements. In some scenes, especially when characters use night vision goggles, it becomes almost impossible to distinguish in-game images from real recordings. The sound design has also been significantly improved: now the sound is detailed and clear, which further brings the shooter closer to a high level of realism.

The technological advances of the game turned out to be insufficient for successful perception. The main problem was the story campaign, which turned out to be too serious and dramatic, which deprived it of the lightness and fun for which fans of the series return to the game every year. Unlike the single-player mode, the multiplayer proved to be much better. It introduced the Ground War mode, supporting up to 64 players, which can be considered a tribute to the Battlefield series. It also introduced the Gunsmith system, allowing for deep customization of each weapon, and the dynamic Gunfight mode, focusing on 2v2 team-based firefights in confined spaces. While the maps were high-quality, they didn't match the online arenas of the original Modern Warfare games.

The reboot of the Modern Warfare series was a significant event with the release of Warzone, a free-to-play battle royale. This mode continues to actively develop and remains one of the most popular components of the franchise. Warzone attracts players with its dynamic gameplay, regular updates, and unique mechanics, making it an essential part of the Modern Warfare experience.

Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War

Release date: 2020.

Available platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series S, and Xbox Series X.

Black Ops Cold War, released after the futuristic Black Ops 3, returns players to the atmosphere of the Cold War, full of espionage intrigue and secret government projects. The game takes place in the early 1980s, where CIA agent Alex Mason, familiar from the first game, and his team are hunting a mysterious Soviet spy named Perseus. The plot combines real historical events and fiction, inviting players to complete missions in Eastern Europe and Vietnam, as well as visit a Soviet military base. Importantly, players will have to make critical decisions that can significantly affect the outcome of the game, adding an element of strategy and personal responsibility. Black Ops Cold War offers a unique experience, combining immersive gameplay with a deep storyline that intertwines history and fiction to create a captivating atmosphere.

Gameplay versatility allows players to choose how to approach certain missions, whether through stealth or open combat. The story-driven campaign maintains the best traditions of the Black Ops series, offering numerous memorable and impactful scenes, making gameplay engaging and dynamic. This approach to playstyle selection allows each player to tailor the experience to their preferences, enhancing engagement and interest in the story.

In multiplayer, the new Fireteam mode is a highlight, allowing up to 40 players to participate in missions across expansive maps. This mode offers a unique gaming experience and dynamic combat. In the Zombies mode, a new co-op campaign has been traditionally added, which deepens and expands the already rich mystical lore of the game, providing players with new opportunities for co-op play and exploration of the story.

Call of Duty: Black Ops 3

Release date: 2015.

Platforms on which the game is available include PC, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox 360, Xbox One, and Xbox Series S/X. These consoles and devices provide a wide range of options for players, allowing them to enjoy gameplay across multiple platforms.

The third part of Black Ops, released a year after Advanced Warfare, continues to develop the future setting and introduces even more fantastical elements into the gameplay. The game takes place in 2065, when the world is faced with devastating global cataclysms, and advanced cybernetic technology becomes an integral part of combat operations around the world. Players have access to a variety of unique skills: the ability to hack enemy systems in real time, use invisibility with the help of special camouflage, and also use superhuman strength and reflexes. High jumps and the ability to run on walls add dynamism and strategic depth to the gameplay, opening up new tactical possibilities on the battlefield.

The protagonist is a soldier in the new Black Ops game. Like previous characters in the franchise, he finds himself embroiled in political intrigue and large-scale conspiracies. The plot is complex and multi-layered, raising relevant themes of mind control and the ethics of using cybernetic technology. A new offering in the game is a co-op mode that allows your friends to play as the protagonist's comrades. Story mode also offers the option to choose from various classes of cybernetic enhancements, giving players the chance to adapt their playstyle to their preferences. This makes the game more engaging and personalized, attracting the attention of both long-time fans and new players.

The game's multiplayer component introduces elements of a futuristic setting, replacing the traditional class system with a unique "Specialist" mechanic. Each character possesses incredible abilities and equipment, adding variety to the gameplay. Map design has also been updated, becoming more vertically focused, allowing players to not only double jump but also wall-run. Zombies mode, a hallmark not only of Black Ops but of the entire Call of Duty series, features a new campaign, developing a complex storyline that builds on the events of previous installments. This update brings a fresh twist to a familiar concept and allows players to dive deeper into the game world.

Call of Duty: WWII

Release date: 2017.

Game platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series S, and Xbox Series X. These gaming systems offer a variety of options for players, delivering high-quality graphics and immersive gameplay. Regardless of preference, each platform provides a unique experience and access to a wide range of games. The choice of platform depends on your personal preferences and playstyle.

After delving deeply into the future and futuristic technology in games like Black Ops, Advanced Warfare, and Infinite Warfare, Activision decided to return the Call of Duty series to its roots. This time, the emphasis was placed on the World War II setting, which became the basis of the franchise. The result was successful, despite the lack of significant innovations in the story campaign. This return to the classics attracted the attention of old fans and gave new players the opportunity to get acquainted with the story on which the entire series was built.

The story follows US Army Private Ronald Daniels, who, along with his comrades in arms, goes through the Western Front during World War II. The plot reflects classic elements familiar to many fans of iconic American war films. Even if you're prepared, the influence of such works can be powerful.

Call of Duty: WWII draws many parallels from works like Saving Private Ryan and the TV series Band of Brothers. However, references to other iconic stories can also be found throughout the game. This isn't a drawback, as the plot, despite its obvious inspirations, is genuinely engaging. Talented actors like Josh Duhamel played a significant role in this. However, it's worth noting that the campaign doesn't focus on other storylines, as was the case in previous installments of the series, which told the stories of soldiers from the British and Soviet armies. WWII focuses solely on a single protagonist and their journey across Western Europe, which may limit the narrative's diversity, but it also creates a deeper character arc.

Call of Duty: WWII's gameplay eschews futuristic technology, returning to traditional mechanics and historically accurate weaponry appropriate to World War II. The main changes affected multiplayer, where the traditional menu was replaced by a hub—a separate virtual space for multiple players. The hub allowed players to launch online matches, customize classes (now called "divisions"), open loot boxes, and perform other actions before engaging in online combat. This approach not only improved interaction between players but also added an element of socialization, which contributed to a more engaging gameplay.

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare

Release date: 2007. This year was significant for many films that gained popularity among audiences and critics. Among them, we can highlight films that influenced the development of the film industry and became classics of the genre. 2007 was also marked by the emergence of outstanding acting and original stories, which made it an important stage in the history of modern cinema.

Platforms for the game include PC, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4 (remaster), PlayStation 5 (remaster), Xbox 360, Xbox One and Xbox Series S / X. These devices provide wide access to the game, allowing players to enjoy it on various platforms. The PS4 and PS5 remasters offer improved graphics and optimization, making the gameplay more engaging.

Released in 2007, Modern Warfare is one of the most significant installments in the Call of Duty series. In this game, Infinity Ward successfully implemented two key elements that have remained in the franchise to this day. First, it is a short but event-rich story campaign that captures players' attention from the very first minutes. Second, it is an engaging multiplayer that can be immersed for hundreds of hours, offering a variety of modes and opportunities for interaction with other players. Modern Warfare set a high bar for subsequent games, significantly contributing to the development of the first-person shooter genre.

Call of Duty has always stood out for its storytelling, but Modern Warfare took it to a new level. In the single-player mode, we don't just observe standard war scenes, but are immersed in spectacular productions and tense gameplay situations that constantly surprise and engage the player. Memorable characters like Captain John Price and the main antagonists—the brutal Middle Eastern revolutionary Khaled al-Assad and the Russian ultranationalist Imran Zakhaev—play a key role. One of the most striking moments involves al-Assad personally executing the country's captive leader in his bid to seize power. This first-person perspective allows the player to witness the action from the victim's perspective, making it especially memorable for shooter fans.

Infinity Ward introduced revolutionary mechanics to the series' multiplayer, revolutionizing the way online battles are created. One of the key innovations was a progression system that encompasses not only character but also weaponry. Players earn experience, primarily by killing opponents, and as they level up, new weapons and additional modifications, such as scopes and silencers, are unlocked.

The class system has also been significantly improved, allowing players to fine-tune their builds by selecting the right weapons, perks, and gear. A key element of multiplayer is the killstreak system, which rewards players for a series of kills. Three main killstreaks are available in the game: a radar drone, an airstrike, and a support helicopter. These elements significantly diversified multiplayer battles, making them more dynamic and exciting.

In 2016, the Call of Duty: Modern Warfare remaster was released, which continues to impress with its graphics and gameplay, even compared to the latest installments in the series. If you want to get acquainted with the classics, this version is highly recommended. It includes both the story campaign and the multiplayer mode, both of which have been significantly improved in terms of graphics and gameplay balance. The remaster has become an excellent opportunity for new players and long-time fans of the series to once again plunge into the exciting world of Modern Warfare.

Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare

Release date: 2016. This year saw many significant events in various fields, including cinema, music, and technology. Many anticipated films and albums hit the screens and airwaves, captivating audiences and listeners. Furthermore, 2016 saw the introduction of innovative technologies that impacted everyday life and business. This year marked a significant milestone in cultural and technological development, leaving a lasting mark on history.

Game platforms include PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series S/X. These devices offer a wide range of options for gamers, offering various graphics settings, controls, and exclusive games. Regardless of preference, each platform offers a unique gaming experience tailored to user needs.

Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare is one of the most underrated games in the Call of Duty series. The reasons for this remain unclear, but this game offers much more than is usually expected from well-known Activision projects. Infinite Warfare stands out for its unique approach to storytelling and gameplay, combining elements of science fiction with the action typical for the series. Players can enjoy exciting space combat, as well as developed characters and an intriguing story that immerses them in a future world. Despite the bias, Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare deserves attention and recognition among fans of the genre.

This game features a gripping and lengthy story campaign dedicated to the confrontation between Earth and a militarized group formed by Martian colonizers. Players will explore various locations, including their home planet, the Moon, the moons of Jupiter and Saturn, and an asteroid orbiting Mercury. In addition to the usual firefights in a variety of environments, Infinite Warfare also features space battles, where you need to control maneuverable fighters. This game offers a unique blend of ground and space combat, making it attractive to fans of sci-fi and dynamic action.

The protagonist and his comrades discuss all their plans on a spaceship, which serves as the main base and game hub. From this location, players can embark on both story missions and side missions related to the elimination of the leaders of the Martian group. This group is led by Admiral Salen Kotch, played by Kit Harington, known for his role in the TV series Game of Thrones. The ship not only provides access to missions, but also becomes a hub for interaction between characters, which adds depth and variety to the gameplay.

Call of Duty: Black Ops

The film was released in 2010.

Game platforms include PC, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Xbox Series S/X and Nintendo Wii. Each of these platforms offers unique features and a varied gaming experience, allowing players to enjoy a wide range of games in different genres. The choice of platform depends on the user's preferences, be it graphics, exclusive games or online features.

The first game in the Black Ops series opened a new direction for the Call of Duty franchise, inspiring the creation of six installments. This game offered an original take on the events of the Cold War, unfolding in the 1960s against the backdrop of political and military tensions between the United States and the USSR. At the center of a gripping story, full of secrets and unexpected twists, is the story of American soldier Alex Mason, who finds himself embroiled in a complex web of espionage intrigue. The game's main locations include Cuba, Vietnam, the United States, and the Soviet Union, adding realism and depth to the gameplay. Black Ops not only introduced gameplay innovations but also created a unique atmosphere that attracts players worldwide.

Black Ops was the first game in the Call of Duty series to demonstrate that a story could be not only engaging but also unexpected. Despite the lack of significant gameplay innovations, the central story grips from the very first minutes and does not let go until the final credits roll. An atmosphere of mystery and tension has become one of the main characteristics of this sub-series, and an emphasis on story depth and thriller elements continues to distinguish Black Ops from other Call of Duty games. This unique approach to narrative and gameplay makes Black Ops significant in the first-person shooter genre.

The multiplayer in this game proved successful due to the development of concepts introduced in the popular Modern Warfare 2. However, the key innovation was the Zombies mode, which previously existed in a simplified format in World at War. In this version, the co-op campaign gained significant depth, rich in lore and story, and also transported players to memorable locations. Zombies mode offered unique weapons and equipment, unavailable in the single-player campaign and standard multiplayer. It was with the first Black Ops that Zombies mode became an integral part of the Call of Duty universe, acquiring features that remain to this day.

Call of Duty: Black Ops 2

Release date: 2012.

Platforms: PC, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Xbox Series S/X, Nintendo Wii U. These consoles and computers offer a wide range of games, allowing users to enjoy a diverse gaming experience. Each platform has its own unique features and exclusive projects, which makes them attractive to different categories of gamers. Choosing the right platform depends on the player's preferences and desired gaming content.

Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 was the first game in the series to introduce non-linear storytelling elements into the plot. Players were given the opportunity to influence the development of the story and its endings, depending on the decisions made during the game. This innovation added significant depth to the gameplay and increased replayability, allowing each user to experience a unique experience in the world of Call of Duty.

The plot unfolds in two time periods: in the 1980s, during the Cold War, and in 2025, when most military conflicts are resolved with the help of robots and drones. The future focuses on David Mason, the son of Alex Mason, the protagonist of the first Black Ops game. David is investigating the activities of terrorist Raul Menendez, whose actions could trigger a global cyberwar. Flashbacks reveal how Menendez became who he is and how his fate was influenced by David's father and his comrades. This contrast between the two eras highlights the fluidity of military strategy and the influence of personal stories on global events, creating a compelling narrative that draws attention to issues of security and future technology.

In Black Ops 2's Cold War-themed storyline, the gameplay offers few significant innovations. However, in future missions, players encounter a variety of futuristic weapons and unique equipment, including controllable drones and armored robots. A significant addition to the gameplay is the Strike Force mode, which consists of side missions that are not directly connected to the main story. Despite this, completing missions in this mode can have a small impact on the central story. Black Ops 2 successfully combines elements of historical context with futuristic technology, making the game engaging for players with both a passion for history and science fiction.

One of the key innovations in Black Ops 2's multiplayer mode is the Pick 10 system. It allows players to create a unique class by filling 10 slots with various equipment and perks. This allows, for example, to forgo one weapon in favor of an additional bonus, opening up new horizons for developing a playstyle. New maps for online battles were also introduced, which can be considered some of the best in the series, along with maps from the original Modern Warfare 2. The Zombies mode, which has gained popularity among players, has also undergone significant changes: more diverse elements and lore details have been added, as well as a new story campaign, which makes it even more exciting.

Worthy of mention: Call of Duty and Call of Duty 2

The release date of the first part is 2003, and the second part is 2005

Game platforms: PC, PlayStation 3 (first part only), Xbox 360.

In this context, it is impossible to ignore two key games that marked the beginning of the legendary Call of Duty series. These games not only set the standard for subsequent projects but also laid the foundation for the formation of the first-person shooter genre.

The release of the first Call of Duty game was a landmark event for the shooter genre in the early 2000s. It offered players a realistic immersion in the events of World War II, allowing them to relive key battles on both the Western and Eastern Fronts. The game's story is divided into three campaigns in which players can assume the roles of soldiers from the USA, Great Britain, and the USSR. Players participate in historically significant missions, including the Normandy landings and the Battle of Stalingrad. Call of Duty set new standards for war games, providing a deep story and immersive gameplay.

Despite the lack of some modern features, the original Call of Duty amazed players at the time of its release with its scope and the variety of options in the single-player campaign. Players were able to enjoy unique gameplay that set new standards for war shooters. This game not only presented a gripping story but also offered a realistic atmosphere, making it a significant event in the world of video games. The original Call of Duty left an indelible mark on the history of the genre, becoming the foundation for the subsequent development of the series.

Call of Duty 2 continued the tradition of the first release, offering players improved graphics, more spectacular scenes, and diverse gameplay elements. In the single-player campaign, players are once again immersed in three storylines featuring American, British, and Soviet soldiers. Each mission offers more variety and diversity, allowing players to choose their own strategies to achieve their objectives. Thanks to this, Call of Duty 2 became not only more exciting but also more immersive in the world of World War II.

The second part of the game was memorable for its multiplayer, which, although significantly different from the modern standards of the series, still provided many exciting moments in classic online modes such as Deathmatch. This mode offered players the opportunity to have fun, battling each other and enjoying the game's atmosphere.

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2

Release date: 2009. This year saw many significant events in various fields. The cinema industry delighted audiences with exciting premieres, including films that became cult classics. The music industry also kept up the good work, releasing albums that topped the charts. In the world of technology, 2009 was marked by the emergence of new devices and updates that changed the familiar appearance of gadgets. This year marked a significant milestone for many areas, leaving a lasting mark on history.

Gaming platforms: PC, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Xbox Series S and X. These devices offer a wide range of options for gamers, providing access to a variety of games and a unique gaming experience. The PC offers flexibility in settings and updates, while consoles like the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 are popular for their exclusive titles and ease of use. The newest consoles, Xbox One and Xbox Series S/X, offer improved graphics and performance, allowing players to enjoy modern games at a high level. The choice of platform depends on the player's preferences and the type of games they are interested in.

Determining the best Call of Duty game is no easy task, as every significant game in this long-running franchise has been done to a high standard. Should we choose the game that has had the greatest influence on the series? Modern Warfare, Black Ops, and 2019's Modern Warfare would all fall into that category. Perhaps the game with the most compelling storyline should be our top pick? In that case, it might be all the Black Ops games except for Black Ops IV, which lacks a story campaign. And when it comes to multiplayer, the choice becomes even more difficult, as so many games offer excellent multiplayer modes.

The top Call of Duty game should be the one that combines all the key elements needed to become a leader. Importance to fans, industry impact, a compelling story, and high-quality multiplayer—all of these are crucial. Is there a game like this in the history of Call of Duty? Yes, it's Modern Warfare 2, released in 2009. This game became a symbol of the series thanks to its outstanding gameplay and multiplayer modes, which were highly praised by players. Modern Warfare 2 not only set new standards for first-person shooters but also left an indelible mark on the gaming world.

The first Modern Warfare game was a true revolution for the Call of Duty series, laying the foundation for future games not only in the franchise but also in the shooter genre as a whole. However, Modern Warfare 2 not only built on the success of its predecessor but also identified missing elements that made the game even more engaging. The developers improved the gameplay, added new mechanics, and significantly expanded the story, allowing players to become more immersed in the gameplay and enjoy exciting moments. Modern Warfare 2 marked a significant milestone in the series' evolution, demonstrating how the ideas and concepts established in the first game could be further developed and made even more compelling to audiences.

Modern Warfare 2's story campaign boasts a significant scope, moving from local conflicts to a global war on American soil. Players witness a nuclear explosion observed from Earth's orbit and the assault on the White House engulfed in flames. This expansive and intense story immerses players in the world of war, demonstrating the aftermath of conflict and the dramatic events that unfold against the backdrop of catastrophic events.

Modern Warfare 2 offers players expanded multiplayer options with an enhanced progression and customization system. The game features a host of new killstreak rewards, an impressive arsenal of weapons, and a variety of carefully designed locations. The maps in Modern Warfare 2 have become a true standard of quality, and this is confirmed by the fact that in Modern Warfare 3, released in 2023, the entire multiplayer roster of arenas consists entirely of updated versions of these maps. This demonstrates the developers' focus not only on innovation but also on preserving the best traditions of the series, making the game even more appealing to fans.

The original Modern Warfare 2 introduced a co-op mode, which, although it did not achieve the same popularity as the zombie mode from Black Ops, still demonstrated a high demand among fans for joint missions. This confirms that players value the ability to complete co-op missions as much as single-player campaigns. Co-op mode has become an important element, expanding the gaming experience and allowing users to interact with each other on exciting missions.

Modern Warfare 2 stands out among the Call of Duty games thanks to its unique atmosphere and the quality of its content. This shooter game differs from modern games in that it lacks elements like microtransactions and constant metagame changes, which often leave players hooked if they don't log in regularly. Modern Warfare 2 lacks the comical character skins and inappropriate collaborations that have become commonplace in many modern titles. It's also worth noting that the SBMM system, which many players criticize, is absent from this game. All these factors make Modern Warfare 2 not only a classic but also an attractive option for genre fans seeking a high-quality gaming experience. The original Modern Warfare 2 takes first place in our ranking thanks to its clear strengths and the absence of significant weaknesses. The game stands out for its high-quality graphics, well-thought-out gameplay, and engaging storyline, making it one of the best first-person shooters in the genre. These factors contribute to its popularity among players and critical acclaim.