“Call of Duty: Vanguard” is a first-person shooter game developed by Sledgehammer Games and published by Activision. It was released on November 5, 2021, for PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.
Setting and Campaign
The game is set during World War II, focusing on the origins of special forces. Players experience battles across various fronts, including the Eastern and Western Fronts, North Africa, and the Pacific. The campaign follows a multinational group of soldiers forming Task Force One to confront a Nazi resurgence.
Multiplayer Mode
Vanguard’s multiplayer offers diverse modes and a range of maps at launch. The game introduces a new feature called Combat Pacing, allowing players to choose different intensities of gameplay. Operators, each with unique backgrounds and abilities, are also introduced, enhancing player engagement.
Zombies Mode
Developed by Treyarch, the Zombies mode continues the Dark Aether storyline from previous Call of Duty titles. Players cooperate to battle waves of undead, uncovering secrets and completing objectives.
Post-Launch Content
Activision has outlined a roadmap for post-launch content, including new maps, modes, seasonal events, and integration with “Call of Duty: Warzone.” Seasonal updates aim to keep the player base engaged with fresh content and challenges.
Reception
Upon release, “Call of Duty: Vanguard” received mixed to positive reviews. Critics praised the game’s campaign for its storytelling and character development. However, some noted that the multiplayer mode lacked innovation compared to previous installments. The Zombies mode was appreciated for its cooperative gameplay but faced criticism for limited content at launch.
Sales Performance
Despite the franchise’s popularity, “Call of Duty: Vanguard” experienced lower sales compared to its predecessors. Analysts attribute this decline to increased competition in the first-person shooter genre and potential franchise fatigue among players.
Community Feedback
The player community has been vocal about various aspects of the game. Feedback includes calls for balancing weapons in multiplayer, addressing technical issues, and expanding Zombies mode content. Developers have acknowledged these concerns and are working on updates to improve the gaming experience.
Integration with Warzone
“Call of Duty: Vanguard” integrates with the free-to-play battle royale game “Call of Duty: Warzone.” This integration includes shared progression, weapons, and operators. A new Warzone map, Caldera, was introduced, offering a Pacific-themed environment for players.
Competitive Scene
The game has been incorporated into the Call of Duty League (CDL), the professional esports circuit for the franchise. Teams compete in Vanguard’s multiplayer modes, with tournaments and events scheduled throughout the year.
Future Updates
Activision has committed to providing ongoing support for “Call of Duty: Vanguard.” Future updates are expected to include additional content, gameplay improvements, and seasonal events to maintain player engagement.