From the trenches of World War II to futuristic warfare in outer space, the Call of Duty franchise has taken gamers on a wild ride through history and beyond. With each installment, players have been treated to gripping narratives, unforgettable characters, and enough gunfire to make any action movie jealous. If you’ve ever found yourself wondering just how many times you’ve stormed a beach or saved the world, you’re not alone.
Every Call of Duty Game in Order
The Call of Duty series launched its first installment in 2003, set in World War II, which laid the groundwork for its explosive growth. Subsequent titles expanded the narrative landscape, introducing players to diverse conflicts, including modern warfare, the Cold War, and futuristic scenarios. Gamers experienced the changing dynamics of warfare through engaging storytelling and intricate gameplay mechanics.
Innovations within the franchise led to groundbreaking multiplayer modes, creating a community-focused experience that many players cherish. Each installment offers unique features, from customizable loadouts to special abilities, enhancing competitiveness and replayability. Iconic characters such as Captain Price and Soap MacTavish provided emotional connections that resonate with players.
Call of Duty also ventured into diverse genres, incorporating zombie modes and battle royale formats. Zombies mode, first appearing in Call of Duty: World at War, offered thrilling cooperative gameplay that became a staple for fans. Moreover, the introduction of Call of Duty: Warzone brought a free-to-play battle royale experience, further solidifying its place in the gaming community.
The franchise’s revenue generation exceeded 27 billion dollars as of 2021, demonstrating its commercial success and enduring popularity. With yearly releases, the series continuously evolves while retaining its core elements: intense action, cinematic storytelling, and immersive environments. Gamers remain captivated by the thrill of combat, making Call of Duty a cornerstone in the gaming industry.
Main Series Games
The Call of Duty series features a rich array of titles, each contributing to the franchise’s legacy. Below are the main entries in chronological order.
Call of Duty (2003)
Set during World War II, Call of Duty launched the franchise. Players experienced intense battles across multiple theaters, including the Western Front and North Africa. The game’s innovative squad-based mechanics allowed players to control various soldiers, enriching the narrative scope. It gained critical acclaim and established a strong foundation for future installments.
Call of Duty 2 (2005)
Call of Duty 2 expanded the World War II setting. The game showcased enhanced graphics and detailed battle environments. Players took on the roles of different soldiers through iconic battles like D-Day and El Alamein. This installment introduced a regeneration health system, making combat more accessible and engaging.
Call of Duty 3 (2006)
Call of Duty 3 shifted focus to the Normandy Breakout, where players fought in multiple campaigns. The title featured more cinematic presentations and improved multiplayer modes. Engaging narratives unfolded through character perspectives, enhancing emotional connections. Reception was positive, reinforcing the franchise’s reputation.
Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare (2007)
Modern Warfare marked a pivotal shift for the series by introducing a contemporary setting. Its gripping storyline tackled terrorism and modern combat scenarios. Players connected with memorable characters, including Captain Price and Soap MacTavish. Multiplayer experiences flourished, emphasizing customizable loadouts and fast-paced action.
Call of Duty: World at War (2008)
World at War returned to World War II with a darker tone. This installment highlighted the brutal reality of war in the Pacific Theater. Players experienced both Allied and Axis perspectives in intense battles. Zombie mode also made its debut, adding a cooperative gameplay element that gained immense popularity.
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 (2009)
Modern Warfare 2 continued the saga of its predecessor. It introduced thrilling missions and compelling narratives, advancing the storyline of global conflict. The multiplayer component expanded significantly, including new modes and maps. This installment solidified Call of Duty’s place in the gaming landscape.
Call of Duty: Black Ops (2010)
Black Ops brought players into the Cold War era, exploring espionage and special operations. Players encountered rich storytelling through a complex narrative and time shifts. The branching campaign featured iconic moments, intertwining history with action. Multiplayer components also thrived, introducing customizable perks and scorestreaks.
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 (2011)
Modern Warfare 3 concluded the trilogy with high-octane warfare. It followed the global conflict ignited in previous titles. Players fought in diverse locations worldwide, with both new and returning characters. Multiplayer innovations included the introduction of survival mode and extensive weapon customization.
Call of Duty: Black Ops II (2012)
Black Ops II expanded the narrative by introducing branching storylines and player choices. Set in both the Cold War and a near-future timeline, it explored the ramifications of warfare. The multiplayer experience included a new league play system and a variety of game modes. This installment highlighted the series’ evolution into a complex narrative experience.
Call of Duty: Ghosts (2013)
Ghosts introduced a new storyline centered on a post-apocalyptic world. Players engaged in combat strategies against a technologically advanced enemy. Multiplayer modes revamped aspects of gameplay, including dynamic maps and more extensive customization. This entry marked a departure in tone from previous titles while maintaining core gameplay mechanics.
Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare (2014)
Set in a future dominated by private military corporations, Advanced Warfare introduced advanced technology and exoskeletons. Players experienced new movement mechanics, enhancing verticality and fluidity in combat. The narrative focused on personalization within warfare. Multiplayer innovation included the introduction of supply drops and new game modes.
Call of Duty: Black Ops III (2015)
Black Ops III combined traditional gameplay with future warfare mechanics. Players experienced a complex narrative involving cybernetic enhancements and advanced technology. The multiplayer aspect revamped the approach to combat, incorporating a focus on specialists with unique abilities. Additionally, the zombies mode expanded with fresh gameplay elements and compelling storylines.
Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare (2016)
Infinite Warfare presented a deep-space battle environment. The game explored themes surrounding humanity’s struggle for survival and resource scarcity. Players engaged in both ground combat and space dogfights. Despite mixed reception, it featured a robust multiplayer experience with an array of new game modes and maps.
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare Remastered (2016)
Modern Warfare Remastered delivered a reimagined experience of the iconic original. Enhanced graphics and audio revitalized beloved missions. Players enjoyed the classic gameplay while experiencing modern technical advancements. The remaster catered to both nostalgic fans and newcomers to the series.
Call of Duty: WWII (2017)
WWII returned the franchise to its roots, focusing on the European theater. The title emphasized authenticity and historical context. Players navigated iconic battles as part of the 1st Infantry Division. Multiplayer modes drew on traditional elements, revitalizing classic gameplay mechanics.
Call of Duty: Black Ops 4 (2018)
Black Ops 4 shifted focus away from a traditional single-player campaign. It introduced a robust multiplayer experience with fast-paced action and an emphasis on teamwork. The battle royale mode, Blackout, gained popularity among players. The zombies mode continued to thrive, offering rich narrative experiences for fans.
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare (2019)
This reboot of Modern Warfare reimagined the series while maintaining its core elements. Players experienced gritty, realistic combat intertwined with complex moral narratives. The multiplayer component featured 64-player ground war battles and fresh gameplay mechanics. It marked a significant revival for the franchise, garnering critical acclaim.
Call of Duty: Warzone (2020)
Warzone introduced a free-to-play battle royale mode that quickly captivated players. Combining mechanics from previous titles, it offered a massive map and a unique Gulag feature. The battle royale experience catered to millions, fostering a player-driven community. Regular updates expanded gameplay, introducing new content and limited-time events.
Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War (2020)
Cold War concluded the Black Ops storyline while exploring the tension of the 1980s. Players engaged in espionage and operations against a backdrop of historical events. Multiplayer modes integrated classic gameplay with new features. The zombies experience also received significant updates, continuing to evolve.
Call of Duty: Vanguard (2021)
Vanguard returned to World War II, exploring untold stories from unrecognized battles. Players experienced various theaters, including the Pacific and Western Fronts. Enhanced multiplayer features and maps appealed to both new and returning players. The storyline highlighted the interconnectedness of characters and events.
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II (2022)
Modern Warfare II continued the narrative established in the 2019 reboot. Players navigated through various missions that emphasized tactical gameplay. The multiplayer experience refined mechanics from its predecessor while adding new modes. This installment built upon the success and legacy of the franchise.
Call of Duty: Warzone 2.0 (2022)
Warzone 2.0 revamped the battle royale formula while maintaining core elements. Players explored a new expansive map and engaged with improved mechanics. Regular updates introduced fresh content, enhancing the overall experience. This sequel solidified the franchise’s commitment to evolving player engagement and satisfaction.
Spin-Off and Mobile Titles
The Call of Duty franchise extended beyond main series titles, introducing a variety of spin-off and mobile games. Notable among these is Call of Duty: Finest Hour (2004), which marked the series’ console debut, enabling players to experience World War II from different perspectives.
Call of Duty: Roads to Victory (2007) followed as the first portable entry for the PSP, offering unique missions that emphasized tactical gameplay. Additionally, Call of Duty: World at War: Final Fronts (2008) provided an alternative World War II narrative exclusively for the PlayStation 2.
The franchise also ventured into mobile gaming with Call of Duty: Mobile (2019). This free-to-play title combined fan-favorite maps, characters, and gameplay modes from various series entries, creating a diverse battle experience on mobile devices. It attracted over 100 million downloads within months of its launch, showcasing the franchise’s immense appeal across platforms.
Call of Duty: Zombies (various years) evolved into a beloved mode, resulting in standalone titles like Call of Duty: Zombies (2013) and Call of Duty: Zombies Chronicles (2017). These offerings expanded gameplay, providing rich narratives and cooperative play options.
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare Remastered (2016) revitalized classic entries with enhanced graphics and gameplay, attracting both new and returning players. The continuous updates and seasonal content keep players engaged, contributing to a robust community.
Overall, these titles reflect the franchise’s commitment to innovation and player satisfaction through diverse gaming experiences across platforms.
Shaped the Landscape of Video Gaming
The Call of Duty franchise has undeniably shaped the landscape of video gaming. Its ability to adapt and innovate while maintaining core gameplay elements has kept players engaged for nearly two decades. With each new title, it continues to push boundaries and explore diverse narratives that resonate with its audience.
As the series evolves into new genres and platforms, it remains a staple in both casual and competitive gaming communities. The combination of cinematic storytelling and thrilling multiplayer experiences ensures that Call of Duty will remain a significant player in the industry for years to come. Gamers can look forward to what’s next as the franchise continues its legacy of intense action and unforgettable moments.
