The video game industry is ever-changing, and more so now than ever, with studios closing and games constantly getting canceled. Despite the unpredictability, gamers can almost always count on a fresh installment of Call of Duty each year, pretty much an annual tradition since 2005.
While details about the 2025 iteration of Call of Duty remain under wraps for now, the rumor mill has been active. A persistent leak suggests this edition might follow 2012’s Black Ops 2 as a direct sequel, continuing the journey with David Mason. While revisiting this older storyline might seem unusual, it holds plenty of promise, particularly in revisiting one of Black Ops 2’s most intriguing aspects.
Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 took a bold step by introducing elements of science fiction. Unlike Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare, known for its high-tech exoskeletons, or Infinite Warfare, with its space settings, Black Ops 2 split its storyline. Part of the game unfolded in the 1980s with familiar heroes Alex Mason and Frank Woods, while the other half jumped to 2025, showcasing tech advancements that felt surprisingly grounded.
This near-future environment allowed players to wield innovative weapons and Scorestreaks that felt fresh and exciting. Gamers experimented with technologies like the Dragonfire drone and the VTOL Warship, blending traditional gameplay with futuristic upgrades. This blend of realism and innovation is something that might be worth revisiting.
Looking ahead to 2025, Call of Duty could benefit from revisiting the semi-futuristic style that made Black Ops 2 so engaging. A touch of sci-fi could introduce fresh weaponry and Scorestreaks while exploring new and rarely tackled themes within the campaign. As past installments have stuck closer to modern settings, this approach would help 2025’s release stand out, potentially avoiding a sense of déjà vu.
Refreshing the series in this way could break the recent mold and offer players an experience that feels both familiar and new, striking a balance that appeals to long-time fans and new players alike.
