The Call of Duty franchise has thrived on intense first-person, action-packed gameplay for years. However, one entry dared to stray from the norm, introducing an experimental gameplay perspective that somewhat divided the fanbase.
Call of Duty: Ghosts is, of course, the game in question. The game put players in control of Riley, a German Shepherd dog, for one level in the campaign. Here’s why the upcoming Black Ops 6 could benefit from a similarly wacky mechanic.
Some Players Didn’t Like Playing As Riley Initially
While the “play as a dog” level in Ghosts was met with criticism from some, it garnered largely positive reception from the majority of players. Looking ahead, though, Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 presents an opportunity to revisit the concept of non-human playable characters, building upon the foundation laid by Ghosts.
There are several reasons why incorporating animal companions or unmanned vehicles could be a winning strategy for Black Ops 6. Firstly, introducing a playable canine or drone segment would offer a distinct gameplay experience.
Players could utilize the unique strengths of these companions, like a dog’s heightened senses or a drone’s maneuverability, leading to cleverly thought-out mission objectives and strategic approaches.
Black Ops 6 Should Capitalize On The Unique Opportunity
Moreover, taking control of an animal or drone could strengthen a player’s connection to the narrative. Scouting enemy positions through a dog’s eyes or remotely piloting a drone through a hostile environment could add immersion not achievable via traditional human characters.
Integrating animal companions or drones wouldn’t have to be a central mechanic throughout Black Ops 6 either. Instead, it could be implemented strategically in specific missions, offering variety and encouraging players to replay those sections to master the unique controls and tactics of the playable characters.
It’s noteworthy that Call of Duty: Ghosts already established a precedent for playable animals. Black Ops 6 could expand on this concept, especially considering its Gulf War setting.
Call of Duty as a franchise hasn’t innovated much in recent years, so the opportunity of playing as a non-human character is something that may set it on the right path again. Reintroducing the concept in Black Ops 6, whether with canines, drones, or other creative ideas, could add more nuance to the gameplay and breathe new life into a repetitive yearly formula.
Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 is set to be revealed at the Call of Duty Direct after the Xbox Games Showcase on June 9.
