ThoughCall of Dutyis undoubtedly the FPS genre’s biggest franchise, it regularly contends with other games that attempt to take its crown. Its most consistent competitor, EA and DICE’sBattlefieldfranchise, is aiming to make a triumphant return withBattlefield 6. Set to release in October, the game will feature nine maps at launch, eight different game modes, and will eventually be joined by a new version ofBF5’s Firestorm battle royale mode. WhileBattlefieldfans are rejoicing because it seems like DICE has heard the community’s feedback after2042’s messy launch - the return of classes, a focus on immersion within a truly modern setting, and refined destruction are all points of praise - it’s been rumored that the forces behindCall of Dutyare nervous. And afterBattlefield 6’s multiplayer reveal, it’s clear to see why.
Call of Duty’s Concern Likely Stems From These Key Areas
While it may seem surprising to hear that a juggernaut likeCall of Dutyis nervous about an upcoming shooter, this claim comes from credible leaker @TheGhostofHope, who has been proven consistently right when it comes to their otherCall of Dutyinfo. The day prior toBattlefield 6’s big multiplayer event, Hope mentioned that DICE’s new game has gotten “Call of Dutyactually worried for once.” And when considering what was shown, it’s no surprise thatCoDis nervous, as proper competition between the two franchises may soon be re-ignited.
Though there have been minor complaints that need to be addressed, like parachute movement speed, the grenade-throwing animation, and weapon sounds, so much of what was shown forBattlefield 6makes it a viable alternative to the upcomingBlack Ops 7. This includes:
Of these points, one of the biggest to consider is thatBattlefield 6is beatingCall of Dutyto a multiplayer map editor. Fans have been asking for this for years, especially after seeing whatPC’sCoDZombies communityhas done with custom maps. Unfortunately, despite so many requests, no such feature has been added. It’s also worth noting just how many big creators - includingCoDYouTubers and Twitch streamers - were at the event, as DICE and EA made sure that disenfranchisedCoDfans would see their favorite celebrities enjoying their time with the competition.
Beyond all of these points is the fact thatBattlefield 6is the antithesis toCall of Duty’s recent output of over-the-top skins. For the foreseeable feature, every cosmetic will have a mil-sim vibe. While this can obviously change down the road, for now, it’s a massive win for players tired of fighting Beavis and Butthead orNicki Minajwhile playing an FPS.Call of Dutyplayers who despise colorful character skins have been increasingly vocal in recent years, and by doubling down on immersion and realism,Battlefieldis essentially appealing directly to that audience.
All of these traits, in addition toBF6simply looking like a stunning military shooter thanks to its destruction and graphics, make it something thatCall of Dutyhas to properly watch out for. WithBattlefield 6givingunhappyCoDfansexactly what they want, from more restricted movement to grounded appearances for their soldiers,Call of Dutymay soon have to examine its approach. Perhaps this leads to community-requested additions like a mil-sim skin toggle or a map editor, or maybeCall of Dutykeeps progressing in its current direction, lettingBattlefieldhave the players who have grown tired of the modernCoDmodel. Regardless, @TheGhostOfHope’s claim thatCall of Dutyis nervous aboutBattlefield 6is easy to believe, as the game is shaping up to be exactly what die-hardBattlefieldfans - and lapsedCoDplayers - have been looking for.
