Call of Duty Has Changed, But Is That a Bad Thing?

Call of Duty has been a cornerstone of gaming culture for over two decades, evolving from gritty, boots-on-the-ground warfare to the high-speed, slide-canceling chaos we see today. This evolution has left the devoted community divided. In collaboration with Eneba, we're diving into whether Call of Duty should return to its roots or if the franchise is on the right path.

The Nostalgia vs. The New Wave

Veteran players often reminisce about the golden era of Call of Duty, pinpointing Modern Warfare 2 (2009) and Black Ops 2 as the pinnacle of the series. They argue that the essence of CoD lies in its focus on skill, with classic maps, straightforward gunplay, and a lack of superfluous features. In contrast, today's Call of Duty is a different beast, featuring flashy operators in glowing armor, bunny-hopping, and laser-beam weapons. While this might be a turn-off for some, the extensive customization options, including a variety of COD skins available on Eneba, appeal to many. However, for those who yearn for the original military shooter experience, the current state of the game can feel like a departure from its roots.

Fast-Paced Chaos: A Blessing or a Curse?

In 2025, Call of Duty is all about speed. The game's mechanics, like slide-canceling, dolphin diving, and instant reloading, have elevated the skill ceiling significantly. This fast-paced action is a thrill for newer players, adding excitement and dynamism to matches. Yet, long-time fans argue that this focus on speed detracts from the strategic, tactical gameplay that defined earlier titles. They feel that the game has morphed into an arcade shooter, losing the essence of what made it feel like a war simulation.

Customization Overload?

The customization in modern Call of Duty is a far cry from the days when players simply chose a soldier and a camo. Now, you can play as celebrities like Nicki Minaj, futuristic robots, or characters from popular TV shows. This variety is a double-edged sword. While it allows for personal expression and keeps the game fresh, it can also dilute the game's military identity, leading to frustration among those who prefer a more grounded experience. Nevertheless, the allure of unique skins and the ability to stand out on the battlefield can't be denied.

Is There a Middle Ground?

The future of Call of Duty doesn't have to be a choice between nostalgia and modernity. A potential solution could be the introduction of a Classic Mode, which strips away the frenetic movement and wild cosmetics, catering to the desires of long-time fans. Meanwhile, the main game can continue to innovate and embrace the trends that attract newer players. Call of Duty has always thrived by balancing respect for its past with forward-thinking innovation.

For those who miss the old-school feel, there's still hope. The franchise occasionally revisits its roots with classic map remasters and simplified game modes. Whether you're a fan of the traditional gameplay or enjoy the modern chaos, Call of Duty continues to evolve and captivate its audience.

Embracing the changes in Call of Duty can be done in style. With a range of operator skins and bundles available on digital marketplaces like Eneba, you can flex on your enemies no matter which era of the game you prefer. As Call of Duty moves forward, it's clear that the series isn't slowing down anytime soon.