THE WTF
Finally, let’s take a look at some of the more WTF aspects of the game.
Team Killing
Call of Duty fans are familiar with Hardcore modes in multiplayer – a set of modes where one shot is usually enough and team killing is a harsh reality. Well, Blackout might not be hardcore, but it does include one hardcore feature: team killing. That’s right, it is entirely possible to kill your teammates. In fact, you can visit YouTube and witness the ridiculous team killing douchebaggery that some players engage in. Fortunately, this is another aspect of the game the developers are looking into. And while I personally don’t mind the ability to team kill – as it adds a level of realism such as making sure you check your targets – I can understand the frustration of being on a team with a complete moron who’s just there to be a dick and team kill.
Driving
Yes, Blackout features vehicles such as ATVs. However, controlling the ground vehicles is a bit bizarre, taking the Halo approach with the left thumbstick controlling the gas/brakes as opposed to the more common approach seen in racing games using the left and right triggers. I figure they chose this approach to keep it in line with controlling the RC cars from past Black Ops games which also make an appearance, albeit less explosive, in Blackout. It’s a small issue, and one most gamers will probably just adapt to, but it would still be great if Treyarch offered some alternate control options.
And there you have it. A brief look at some of the good, bad and WTF moments in Blackout from my initial few hours of playtime. Overall, I walked away thoroughly impressed. It is the best battle royale game I’ve played and I imagine it’ll win over many fans of H1Z1 and PUBG. The mode is a treat for the eyes and filled with fun, nostalgic moments from past Call of Duty multiplayer maps. If you are disappointed that Black Ops IIII is missing a single player mode – and I am too – Blackout might just be enough to fill that void. In the meantime, if you’d like to learn more about Blackout, be sure to check out Treyarch’s handy field guide which will give you some additional insights into the new mode.