If you've ever logged on to a gaming forum and searched for "Call of Duty," you invariably discovered lengthy discussions over whether Treyarch or Infinity Ward have produced the quintessential game in the franchise. With much of the Infinity Ward team moving on to EA, Treyarch has been charged with sedating the series' base. After some hands-on time with "Call of Duty: Black Ops" last night at an event in Los Angeles, I can say that it appears as if the studio has found a balance – at least within multiplayer – that just might satisfy everyone.
Before the development team allowed us to get any hands-on time, Treyarch designers David Vonderhaar and Dan Bunting gave a presentation showcasing what players can expect from the latest game in the "Call of Duty" franchise.
The developers discussed the game's new multiplayer features using three pillars that Treyarch focused on during development: Compete, Customize, and Create. While many features were shown, here's a rundown of new features I feel will get "Call of Duty" fans most excited to jump back into multiplayer.
Compete: Multiplayer Training Modes
Dan Bunting opened this section by discussing an entirely new mode in "Black Ops" multiplayer, Combat Training. "Before there was combat training, there was a dumb drone we called Larry," said Bunting. What was once a development tool which allowed the Treyarch team to test issues within the game, has given way to an entirely new mode in "Black Ops." An interesting new concept within the "Call of Duty" franchise, Combat Training allows the player to experience multiplayer gameplay, but replaces the threat of real online players with AI-controlled bots. What's more, the player can invite a friend into the match, allowing for co-op.
COD Points - Unlock Weapons And Perks With Currency
Experience points have been an important component of multiplayer in recent "Call of Duty" titles. Previously, when a player attained a new XP level they gained additional weapons, perks, etc. "Black Ops" is taking a slightly different approach to earning those items – they can be purchased with currency, called COD Points. "What you used to only unlock by level is now for sale," said David Vonderhaar. What makes this interesting is that a lower level player can now effectively outfit their soldier with the specific gear that they want, without necessarily having to achieve a higher XP level.
More importantly, the game's new currency allows for an all new multiplayer mode, Wager Match, that quickly became my favorite new feature.
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