Call Of Duty: Warzone 2.0
Back with a bang
Less a conventional sequel and more a standalone reimagining of 2019’s smash-hit battle royale, this free-to-play shooter brings far more than a simple change of scenery to the table.
That’s not to say that the new map, the sprawling desert city of Al Mazrah, is an unwelcome addition. The largest environment we’ve seen from
Warzone so far, its varied regions are ripe for exploration and offer plenty of unique challenges. While the skyscrapers of the dense city centre are practically bursting with loot, its tight streets (not to mention the number of vantage points offered by the surrounding buildings) greatly increase the risk of being caught unaware by an enemy squad. On the other hand, the flat countryside makes it easier to see your enemy coming but, thanks to the sparser selection of available gear, also makes it likely you will find yourself outgunned in a direct confrontation.
POINT AND SHOOT
The bulk of 2.0’s weapon selection and gunplay is taken directly from MWII’s multiplayer modes. Like in that game, the high recoil and damage of most guns, while inevitably not to everyone’s liking, leads to faster, more engaging firefights. Far from the original Warzone’s occasionally frustrating formula of overdrawn encounters with seemingly immortal foes who constantly pop new health items and shields, a few well-placed shots can down an opponent in seconds. As a result, teamwork is key to success and keen
Teamwork is key to success, and keen situational awareness is essential for survival.
situational awareness is essential for survival.
The same can be said of the new DMZ mode, which offers a fresh take on the battle royale formula. Inspired by extraction shooters like Hunt: Showdown, the main goal is to drop in, complete objectives on a map filled with NPC baddies, and get out. Unlike in traditional Warzone, your loadout persists between runs. Items collected on one excursion can be used in the next and death carries the risk of losing access to your current gear. It’s a thrilling formula and a number of desirable unlocks, like weapons to be used across all modes, provide a good incentive to play.
Sadly, despite launching a few months after MWII a number of that game’s biggest issues remain unchecked. Weapon progression is confusing, the user interface is difficult to navigate, and the menus are buggy. It’s not unusual to have to trudge back to the main menu, or even close the game entirely, simply to make essential screens like your loadout co-operate. This is a frustrating blemish on these otherwise enjoyable modes.