I have been finding some time to get back online to play some console games after a couple of months of given it a break due to some work commitments. The last time I was playing with friends online, we were trying to grind out some Anthem which was fresh and new but coming back now, I see that it did not live up to expectations and was surprised to see most of my friends playing Division 2 or going back to Call of Duty Black Ops 4. As soon as I connected to the part chat, I was pointed towards Black Ops which was a surprised.
As I loaded the game, I noticed that I had completely missed the latest DLC called Operation Spectre Rising which was created around bringing back a Specialist character from Black Ops 3. The DLC included the character as well as his unique features like being able to see through smoke and having some quick evasive moves when using the main ability with his sword. It made for some interesting encounters when I first played in from both an offensive and defensive point of view. This adds to three new maps for multiplayer: Masquerade, Artifact and the fan favorite from Black Ops 1, WMD!
Multiplayer also finally expanded its World League playlist as the competitive scene continues to gain interest from players. They now have expanded division play and the ranking system as well as implement penalties for those who quit early to leave their teammates in a world of pain. I still criticize it as I was booted from the game a time or two due to connectivity issues and got penalized. Zombies also added a couple of items like Gauntlets which have been said to add to its replay as it brings challenges into the mix. However, it was the only game mode I did not try as I have never been a huge Zombies game mode fan.
It was interesting to see most of the friends playing Blackout more than other game modes. The new DLC had brought a changed map which was based on a scenario where the dam suffered damaged and flood the whole map which destroyed bridges and structures. I was not able to play it as it has been put into rotation but my friends had said that it was not very popular although additions to game modes within the Blackout map have made up for it. Also a whole new map based in the infamous Alcatraz prison island has been popular. We played a couple of games on it and it felt fun as it sped up the gameplay more than other maps given it was smaller and enabled respawns.
In all, while the DLC was dated, it seems to have done enough to keep players engaged as it continues to be to preferred game for my friends which have been willing to explore other games more and more these days. The latest DLC is due at any moment so we will see what additional content they bring into the mix for Call of Duty!
Thanks!