We Clowned Infinite Warfare, but a Sequel Might Be Exactly What COD Needs

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In the year 2016, Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare received significant criticism. The gaming community heavily criticized its trailer to such an extent that it became one of the most disliked videos on YouTube.

Essentially, a large part of the criticism centered around timing, as fans seemed to be growing weary of futuristic settings, parkour movements like wall-running and jetpacks. Infinite Warfare appeared to be the final straw in a line of sci-fi games, prompting critics to view it as overly similar to previous releases. However, looking back, the game proved to have far more depth than many initially gave it credit for.

Hidden behind the curtains, passion, innovation, and a daring endeavor to revolutionize the series were all in motion. A follow-up piece now seems ideal, if not indispensable. I must admit, the promotional campaign surpassed my initial expectations. Upon revisiting it recently, I’d rank it among the franchise’s finest, boasting cinematic flair, compelling characters, and a distinctive environment.

In this narrative, Captain Reyes played a pivotal role, serving as the heart of the storyline. The game’s conclusion left many participants profoundly moved, with the subtle dialogues between Reyes and Ethan being especially impactful. What made this campaign exceptional wasn’t just its writing, but also its carefully crafted structure.

In this game, various tasks were available for players to take on; space voyages in The Jackal Fighter were under consideration, and additional features enriched the universe’s complexity. Unlike traditional campaigns, this one didn’t adhere strictly to a predetermined route. Instead, it allowed for exploration, making players feel more immersed and connected to the characters. This change signified a deliberate shift towards more intricate storytelling, an approach that the series seldom ventures into with such depth.

Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare’s Zombie mode deviated from the gloomier, story-rich style that Treyarch is known for. Instead, the Zombies in Spaceland opted for vibrant neon aesthetics and a retro amusement park backdrop, complete with an appearance by David Hasselhoff. Despite passing years, this rendition of Zombies continues to garner a dedicated fanbase.

I keep going back to its maps, consistently amazed by the originality, visual style, and rhythm. Unlike many other entries that became tangled in intricate plots, Infinite Warfare managed to stay engaging and simple, distinguishing itself from the rest of the series. However, the multiplayer aspect of Infinite Warfare was arguably its least impressive feature, primarily due to an abundance of microtransactions and a progression system that relied on random elements.

Often, players needed supply drops to access key weapons, a situation that left many feeling frustrated and negatively impacted the game’s lifespan. However, movement was refined and seemed much smoother than in games like Vanguard. The unique weapons such as the VPR or twin LMGs were particularly noteworthy due to their novelty.

Customizable Scorestreaks allowed for loops and offered incentives for players to excel, adding depth to their gameplay experience. Additionally, a variant system was implemented, which although controversial, brought an element of exploration not commonly found in the series. In essence, I would describe Infinite Warfare’s multiplayer as undervalued.

Even though it has some issues, the gameplay remains solid, and this is even more apparent when compared to newer versions that seem to struggle with their unique qualities and rhythm. In recent times, the Call of Duty series appears to be rehashing familiar themes. From continuous Modern Warfare remakes to yet another World War II game, the approach has become quite repetitive.

In the Infinite Warfare universe, the upcoming sequel won’t just be different – it will be relevant and well-timed. By building on the strengths of its predecessor while addressing its weaknesses, developers can create an upgraded setting, optimized systems, and a unique player experience that sets itself apart. With advanced technology, updated systems, and a deeper understanding of what players want, they can deliver a revitalized and engaging gameplay experience.

The game Infinite Warfare didn’t perform as well as anticipated not because of flawed design, but rather due to its release at a time when players weren’t keen on its content. Looking back, it was actually the game’s ambitious storyline, captivating environment, and daring creative choices that set it apart. A follow-up could potentially deliver the concept effectively and provide Call of Duty with the cohesive vision it lacked at the time.

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2025-04-22 10:43