Call of Duty Next: Black Ops 6 Multiplayer Impressions Included
This week, I was fortunate enough to attend ‘Call of Duty Next’ in Washington, DC, as part of a select group of press alongside a slew of streamers and influencers. Yesterday afternoon, we had the chance to test-drive some multiplayer maps before today’s main streaming event as part of Call of Duty Next. Overall, I’m loving what I’m seeing so far. Granted, it still looks and feels like Call of Duty, but it feels fresh and re-energized. Here are 13 things I love about Black Ops 6 multiplayer so far:
1. Fast and Fluid Gameplay
In my first few matches, I decided to equip a 4X scope on my LMG, planning to sit back, take it all in, and pick off some enemies. As a result, the gameplay felt slow and a bit sluggish at first. But everything changed when I switched my loadout to an assault rifle. I noticed a significant uptick in speed. Movements were fast, and the maps are designed to get you back into the action right away. All the maps we played were small to medium-sized, making the action intense and exhilarating.
2. Omnimovement
I’ll admit, I need more time with Omnimovement. At times, I felt like my character wasn’t doing what I wanted. I struggled with some of the new mechanics, and with only half a dozen games under my belt, I wasn’t able to pull off those fancy dives out a window with a 180-degree turn just yet. But I love what this new mechanic opens up for the franchise, and I’m sure that, over time, I’ll be able to seamlessly control my character and fully take advantage of it. It’s great that there will be a Training Course included to practice Omnimovement, as it’s a significant addition that will take some time to master.
3. It’s a Black Ops Game
This truly feels like a Black Ops game. It’s not quite as fast as Modern Warfare, as I didn’t see a ton of people sprinting and sliding everywhere, which was a nice change. The maps showcase that traditional pre-laned design, and the frenetic, fast-paced gameplay is back. It all feels familiar but fresh. It’s unmistakably a Treyarch Call of Duty game, and veterans of the franchise will instantly recognize that feeling.
4. 16 New Maps at Launch
I remember when we used to be happy with 10 maps out of the box. Those days are long gone. With 12 core 6v6 maps and 4 Strike maps (playable from 2v2 to 6v6), multiplayer fans will have a nice variety to choose from. During our time in Washington, I played on 8 of those maps, and they all look stunning. Granted, we are playing off badass rigs with the best graphic cards. Whether you’re battling in tight urban environments or sprawling landscapes, Black Ops 6 maps have something for everyone.
5. Return of Classic Prestige
Fans can rejoice as the classic Prestige system is back. In Modern Warfare III, the Prestige system didn’t feel meaningful or like any kind of badge of honor. It’s great to see it return in Black Ops 6, bringing back that rewarding sense of progression when leveling up. Old school COD fans, like myself, will likely embrace this return to glory.
6. 12 Brand New Weapons
The introduction of 12 all-new weapons at launch is fantastic. We only had the chance to experiment with a few during the event, but more will be available during the beta. As someone who loves experimenting with new weapons, this is great news. Plus, Black Ops 6 will also have new tacticals, lethals, field upgrades, and scorestreaks at launch.
7. Meaningful Attachments
Attachments have always made your weapons feel better in Call of Duty, but there have been instances where certain attachments made them worse. This won’t happen in Black Ops 6. The development team has put a lot of thought into attachments over the years, and they want to encourage players to use them. The result is weapons that feel great, even in this Alpha stage. Stacking attachments only improves your weapon. I also like how, if you unlock a red dot optic on your AK, you can use that red dot on every other assault rifle within that class.
8. Theater Mode for Reliving Epic Moments
A buddy of mine loves Theater Mode, so he’ll be super happy it’s back. I am too—it’s great for those who love analyzing their gameplay or creating content. Reliving your best moments from every possible angle adds an extra layer of depth and fun to the game.
9. Enhanced Perk System and New Combat Specialties
The perk system adds to that familiar yet fresh feeling in Black Ops 6. The updated system, with the return of Wildcards and the new Combat Specialty system, allows for deeper customization and strategy. It’s all about tailoring the experience to how you want to play. Each perk is assigned to one of three play styles (support, recon, and enforcer). For instance, if you’re using the enforcer perk, getting a kill gives you a small buff to your movement speed and health regeneration.
10. Incredible Sound Design
Granted, we were all playing with the best headsets and optimal audio settings, but Black Ops 6 multiplayer sounds incredible, lifelike, and immersive. Everything from footsteps to gunfire to in-match chatter is a feast for the ears. The weapons pack a punch, and when you’re under fire, it’s intense as bullets whiz by, shattering and ripping through everything in sight. It’s impressive.
11. Mastery Camo Challenges and Customization
Weapon camo challenges are more detailed and rewarding. Reticle customization and unlocks are back. The new Mastery camo challenges are perfect for those who love showing off their in-game accomplishments.
12. Ranked Play Coming in Season 1
Ranked Play is launching in Season 1, which is great news. We won’t have to wait long to jump into ranked matches. Although Ranked Play has never been something I delved into much, many at the event in Washington were hyped about this news. Playing against the best in the world is a priority for many of the streamers and pros in attendance.
13. Fan-Favorite and New Game Modes
The mix of classic multiplayer modes like Team Deathmatch, Domination, and Hardpoint with new modes like Kill Order and Face Off Kill Order adds variety and keeps the gameplay fresh and exciting. All these new modes will be playable during the beta this weekend.
Did you watch the Call of Duty Next stream? What do you think? Tell us in the comments below.