Armaments Intel: Primary, Secondary, and Melee Weapons (MP, RBZ, WZ)
At launch, expect Black Ops 6 to offer an exceptional arsenal of 33 different armaments to utilize, including 12 weapons all new to the franchise. As you begin to build your favorite Loadouts within a streamlined Weapons menu, and prepare for the Weapon Leveling to come, it’s worth considering the different types of weaponry available to you, how they unlock, and a closer look into a more accessible Gunsmith.
Primary Weapons (25)
Your main and usually hardest-hitting weapon utilized for most of your time in combat. Expect a varied and interesting selection of weapons in each category, as well as the individual Attachments for each Primary Weapon, which are – except for some Optics – unlocked as you level each weapon up. The Gunsmith is available for all Primary Weapons. Run the Wildcard “Overkill” if you wish to equip a second Primary Weapon in the Secondary Weapon slot. Choose from:
Assault Rifles (7)
SMGs (6)
Shotguns (2)
LMGs (3)
Marksman Rifles (4)
Sniper Rifles (3)
Secondary Weapons (6)
Your back-up weapon, used in emergency or context-specific situations. These weapons are carried in addition to the Primary Weapon you pick, and more adept Operators tend to choose a Secondary Weapon that complements their Primary Weapon in some way. Running the Overkill Wildcard will allow players to equip two Primary weapons, as well. The Gunsmith is available for Secondary Weapons. Choose from:
Pistols (4)
Launchers (2)
Melee Weapons (2)
Your third weapon is a close-quarters armament with no ranged ordnance. Bring out your Melee weapon using the same key or button press as Melee (for controllers, this is the Right thumbstick). Tap this for a gun butt melee. Hold to bring out your Melee weapon, which will remain equipped until you swap back to your Primary or Secondary. There’s also the Weapon Cycle setting (accessed via Controller > Combat > Dedicated Melee Weapon Activation > Hold Melee/Weapon Cycle), which allows players to use the weapon swap button to cycle between Primary, Secondary, and Melee weapons if they so choose. The Gunsmith is available for Melee Weapons (Cosmetics only). Choose from:
Knife (1)
Baseball Bat (1)
Player Levels: Weapon Unlock Criteria
All the launch weaponry in Black Ops 6 have specific unlock criteria, and this is related to your Player Progression (accessed via the Progression tab in the Barracks Menu). Gain Experience Points as you play matches to level up, then unlock weapons once you reach a particular Player Progression Level, as shown in the following table. Note that one weapon from each type or class is always immediately available in Default Loadouts and the rest are unlocked as you level up. Look for more information on Player Leveling later in this blog, and full details on all the Player Level Unlocks in the Launch Comms: Progression Blog.
Perk Notes: Equip the following to affect the use of your weaponry in a variety of different ways:
Gung-Ho (Enforcer) reduces movement penalties when reloading or using Equipment and allows reloading while Tactical Sprinting.
Dexterity (Enforcer) reduces weapon motion while jumping, sliding, and diving.
Scavenger (Enforcer) allows ammo resupply from downed enemies.
Bruiser (Enforcer) enables Melee kills to replenish health and earn extra score.
Tracker (Recon) enables auto-pinging enemies when you ADS.
Cold-Blooded (Recon) prevents thermal optics from targeting you.
Fast Hands (Strategist) allows you to swap weapons faster.
Wildcard Notes: Equip the following to affect the use of your weaponry in a variety of different ways:
Overkill allows you to equip any non-melee weapon in Primary and Secondary slots.
Gunfighter allows you to receive three extra Attachment points for your Primary Weapon.
Medium range Primary Weapons. Average mobility, hard-hitting and versatile due to the available attachment options. Usually full-auto, with iron sights and ADS options for Optics.
XM4
MAGS: 3
MAG SIZE: 30
Available: Unlocked Immediately
Full-auto assault rifle. A well-rounded weapon with average accuracy, mobility, and power among its counterparts.
AK-74
MAGS: 3
MAG SIZE: 30
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 10
Full-auto assault rifle. Imposing firepower with high damage at mid-to-long range balanced by a slower rate of fire and heavier recoil.
AMES 85
MAGS: 3
MAG SIZE: 30
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 19
Full-auto assault rifle. Impressive accuracy and a suitable rate of fire make this an excellent weapon for mid to long range engagements.
GPR 91
MAGS: 3
MAG SIZE: 30
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 28
Full-auto assault rifle. What this rifle lacks in raw power, it makes up for in spades with best-in-class handling and a decent rate of fire.
MODEL L
MAGS: 3
MAG SIZE: 30
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 40
Full-auto assault rifle. Slow-firing and controllable with respectable damage, the Model L shines in calculated engagements at mid-range.
GOBLIN MK 2
MAGS: 4
MAG SIZE: 20
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 46
Semi-auto assault rifle. The Goblin Mk2 excels at short to mid ranges where its operator can take full advantage of its handling and impressive rate of fire.
AS VAL
MAGS: 5
MAG SIZE: 20
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 55
Full-auto assault rifle. Leads the way in stealth while remaining suitable for urban combat through its integrated suppressor and improved mobility.
Medium to short-range Primary Weaponry, with good mobility and handling, though not quite as accurate as an AR. Iron sights and ADS options are available for Optics.
C9
MAGS: 4
MAG SIZE: 30
Available: Unlocked Immediately
Full-auto submachine gun. The C9 is a well-balanced weapon that performs reliably in all close to mid-range situations.
KSV
MAGS: 4
MAG SIZE: 30
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 7
Full-auto submachine gun. Fast to aim with manageable recoil and good damage. Perfect for a dexterous operator seeking broad proficiency.
TANTO .22
MAGS: 4
MAG SIZE: 30
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 16
Full-auto submachine gun. Slow-firing, but hard-hitting, the Tanto .22 is an easy-to-handle SMG with impressive mid-range performance.
PP-919
MAGS: 2
MAG SIZE: 64
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 37
Full-auto submachine gun. The PP-919 has the highest ammo counts in class, at the cost of some mobility and fire rate.
JACKAL PDW
MAGS: 4
MAG SIZE: 30
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 43
Full-auto submachine gun. Great mobility and handling make this an easy choice for operators who aggressively seek CQB engagements.
KOMPAKT 92
MAGS: 4
MAG SIZE: 30
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 49
Full-auto submachine gun. Chambered in 9mm with the fastest fire rate in class, the Kompakt 92 excels in close-range encounters.
Advantageous at very close ranges, offering iron sights and ADS via Optics, and with correct Attachments, the ability to spray. Incredible firepower at the expense of range and accuracy.
Marine SP
MAGS: 4
MAG SIZE: 6
Available: Unlocked Immediately
Pump-action shotgun. Powerful and versatile with a short cycling time that allows for rapid target acquisition. Hand loaded with one-shot kill potential in close quarters.
ASG-89
MAGS: 4
MAG SIZE: 6
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 31
Semi-automatic shotgun. Capable of taking down multiple targets in quick succession thanks to its decent magazine size and solid rate of fire.
Primary Weapons with increased ammo capacity and a focus on medium to long-range takedowns. Iron sights and ADS available via Optics. Though Accuracy, Mobility and Handling are sacrificed (compared to ARs), this is balanced by impressive fire rates and fast sustained fire capabilities.
PU-21
MAGS: 3
MAG SIZE: 75
Available: Unlocked Immediately
Full-auto light machine gun. Deceptively lightweight and easy to aim with high damage. Rewards vigilance and careful recoil control.
XMG
MAGS: 3
MAG SIZE: 100
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 13
Full-auto light machine gun. Belt-fed with best-in-class ammo capacity, the XMG has a slower fire rate, but powerful sustained fire accuracy.
GPMG-7
MAGS: 3
MAG SIZE: 50
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 52
Full-auto light machine gun. Unparalleled ability to quickly neutralize threats thanks to a blistering fire rate and suitable long-range damage.
Favoring an Operator with over-average skill, these burstor semi-auto Primary Weapons are optimal at medium to long ranges. ADS or iron sights available for Optics. Projectiles are hard-hitting and accuracy counts.
SWAT 5.56
MAGS: 3
MAG SIZE: 30
Available: Unlocked Immediately
Three-round burst DMR. The Swat 5.56 pairs strong stopping power with a fast burst cooldown for excellence at medium ranges.
Tsarkov 7.62
MAGS: 3
MAG SIZE: 20
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 22
Semi-auto DMR. The Tsarkov 7.62 sacrifices only some power in exchange for excellent handling, making it lethal in the hands of an accurate and mobile Operator.
AEK-973
MAGS: 3
MAG SIZE: 30
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 34
Three-round burst DMR. Great stability and a fast rate of fire within each burst allows the AEK-973 to land multiple shots on target even at long ranges.
DM-10
MAGS: 3
MAG SIZE: 20
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 43
Semi-auto DMR. Best in class stability and power make this the ideal marksman weapon for mid to long range engagements.
Normally set up to take down targets at extremely long ranges, these Primary Weapons favor ADS over iron sights when using Optics. Low mobility, and favoring a stable, patient Operator with a steady aim. Extremely high Firepower indicates one-shot takedown potential.
LW3A1 Frostline
MAGS: 4
MAG SIZE: 5
Available: Unlocked Immediately
Bolt-action sniper rifle. The LW3A1 Frostline has decent rate of fire and handling speeds, but substantial recoil. One shot kill to the head, upper chest, and upper arms. Hold the Left Thumbstick while ADS to steady.
SVD
MAGS: 3
MAG SIZE: 10
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 25
Semi-auto sniper rifle. Gas-operated Soviet sniper with modest vertical kick. Capable of landing precise follow-up shots. One skill kill to the head. Hold the Left Thumbstick while ADS to steady.
LR 7.62
MAGS: 4
MAG SIZE: 5
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 49
Bolt-action sniper rifle. The LR 7.62 delivers high damage with minimal recoil and slower handling. One shot kill to the head, chest, and arms. Hold the Left Thumbstick while ADS to steady.
Full or semi-auto Secondary Weapons, these excel at closer-range takedowns. Iron sights or ADS is available via Optics. Quick to swap to during a fight, and worth considering when finishing off an opponent.
9mm PM
MAGS: 3
MAG SIZE: 10
Available: Unlocked Immediately
Semi-auto pistol. With a decent rate of fire and standard handling, the 9mm PM is a masterclass in reliability and the easy choice for all close-quarter engagements.
Grekhova
MAGS: 3
MAG SIZE: 20
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 13
Full-auto pistol. Surprising accuracy combined with a fast rate of fire offsets the lower damage and smaller effective range of the Grekhova.
GS45
MAGS: 3
MAG SIZE: 10
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 28
Semi-auto pistol. The GS45’s .45 Auto rounds make this sidearm unmatched in close range stopping power.
Stryder .22
MAGS: 2
MAG SIZE: 30
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 40
Semi-auto pistol. The Stryder .22 excels at finishing off damaged opponents in the heat of combat thanks to its fast semi-automatic rate of fire and best in class handling.
Launchers (2)
Attachment Types: None.
Available in lock-on or free-fire variants, these bulky Secondary Weapons are useful for clearing groups of Operators, or against vehicles or technology such as Scorestreaks. Single load, with a sizeable bulk.
CIGMA 2B
MAGS: 2
MAG SIZE: 1
Available: Unlocked Immediately
Lock-on capable launcher. Can lock onto enemy Scorestreaks and vehicles. Fires a high-explosive 110-mm warhead for massive damage.
HE-1
MAGS: 3
MAG SIZE: 1
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 19
Free-fire rocket launcher. Fires a high-explosive 110-mm warhead for massive damage.
Melee Weapons (2)
Attachment Types: None.
Close-quarter battle (CQB) combat armaments offering vicious damage potential and arguably the fastest Mobility of any armament. No range capabilities.
Knife
MAGS: 1
MAG SIZE: 1
Available: Unlocked Immediately
One hit kill. Military-issue tactical knife well-suited for CQC scenarios where stealth, speed, and lethality are required.
Baseball Bat
MAGS: 1
MAG SIZE: 1
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 52
Two-hit kill. The aluminum bat is light enough for quick swings and heavy enough to inflict serious, blunt trauma on victims.
Weapon Menus: Loadouts, Gunsmith, and Attachments (MP, RBZ, WZ)
Loadouts
Your Loadout screen is familiar yet updated. Menus are mainly vertical, and the slots within a Loadout involve choosing armaments that differ slightly depending on the Mode you’re playing:
Multiplayer: Choose three types of weapons (Primary, Secondary, Melee), three types of Equipment (Tactical, Lethal, and an MP-only Field Upgrade), three Perks (MP), an optional Specialty related to your Perk choice, and a Wildcard.
Zombies: Choose two types of weapons (Primary or Secondary, and Melee), three types of Equipment (Tactical, Lethal, and a Zombies-only Field Upgrade), and a GobbleGum Pack (Zombies only).
This blog details the first three Loadout slots (the Primary, Secondary, and Melee Weapons).
You can add Loadouts, creating a maximum of ten.
You can set one Loadout as your favorite. This Loadout acts as your default spawn class in games, and your Operator will carry the Primary Weapon in the Lobby.
You can Rename, Duplicate, or Delete any Loadout.
Content Unlocks
You begin your Black Ops 6 journey with most of your Loadout items locked. There’s a wide variety of functional content to unlock on your journey through the 55 Player Levels. Every time you level up, be sure to check the Barracks > Progression > Level Unlocks menu (shown above) to ensure you’re aware of the unlocks you now have available to you. Expect between one and three unlocks per level.
Each specific unlock box in this menu has the game mode it applies to, or simply the BO6 logo if the item is available in all modes. The following type of content is unlockable, and usually adds to your existing item pools:
Loadouts (Default) (MP)
Loadouts (Custom) (MP)
Weapons (Primary) (MP, RBZ, WZ)
Weapons (Secondary) (MP, RBZ, WZ)
Weapons (Melee) (MP, RBZ, WZ)
Tacticals (MP, RBZ, WZ)
Lethals (MP, RBZ, WZ)
Field Upgrades (MP, WZ)
Field Upgrades (RBZ)
Perks (MP)
Wildcards (MP)
Scorestreaks (MP, RBZ, WZ)
Ammo Mods (RBZ)
GobbleGums (RBZ)
Operators (MP, RBZ, WZ)
Emotes (MP, RBZ, WZ)
Features (MP, RBZ, WZ)
Expect a full and thorough overview of how all your items unlock in the Launch Comms Blog 5: Progression.
The Firing Range
A familiar location to test your equipped Loadout weapons is available, and this comes with a few additions to help you continuously adjust a weapon build until you’re happy with it. Expect to utilize the following:
Practice dummies to shoot at, at 10-, 25-, and 50-meter intervals.
Dummies can have 0, 1, 2, or 3 Armor Plates added to them.
You have almost limitless ammunition.
The upper-left corner features a target elimination tracker, an accuracy tracker, and a damage tracker.
A toggle feature allows you to optionally activate a Moving Target dummy, or a Recoil metal plate.
Toggle Feature: Moving Target: A dummy drops down from the ceiling on a conveyor belt, and automatically moves back through the range as you connect with it using your weapon. Once you hit it at maximum range, it moves back to its initial position, and the process can be repeated.
Toggle Feature: Recoil Target: A metal plate hangs from the ceiling around seven meters from your booth, allowing you to fire your weapon and view the bullet spread.
For more information, please visit www.callofduty.com and www.youtube.com/callofduty, and follow @Activision and @CallofDuty on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook. For Call of Duty Updates, follow @CODUpdates on X (formerly Twitter).
RICOCHET Anti-Cheat™ Progress Report: Black Ops 6 launch
On October 25, Call of Duty®: Black Ops 6 launches and RICOCHET Anti-Cheat will be live on Day One, bringing with it new technology and upgrades to protect your experience.
When it first launched, RICOCHET Anti-Cheat committed to providing players with clear and transparent communication on our methods to protect the Call of Duty community from cheaters. Our technology and methods of detection have evolved so much, but the “how” and “when” we talk to the community simply needs to be more frequent and in line with our evolution.
The RICOCHET Anti-Cheat team has heard your feedback, and this progress report was written to provide a meaningful update on the issue of cheating as well as outline the foundation for the year to come beginning with the launch of Black Ops 6 and what lies beyond.
Over the last year, we have been investing in numerous core systems focused on decreasing the time gap between when cheating occurs and when our systems are able to act. By building on this foundation, we will be able to evolve more quickly and respond more rapidly (more on how fast we are trying to be later).
What Does #TeamRICOCHET Do?
We protect Call of Duty games. We often achieve that goal but know there is so much more work to do. So, what is cheating in Call of Duty? Simply put, it is anything that gives a player an unfair advantage in-game using nefarious software, like wall hacks or perfect aim – not to be confused with any abuse of in-game glitches. Cheating also includes account sharing to unlock gear, using software to get access to items you haven’t earned or purchased, and account boosting.
And you might be wondering, how do people cheat in online games? Put simply, cheaters use software to manipulate the game, to reveal information that shouldn’t be known, or to take automated actions with superhuman speed or accuracy. We all know cars shouldn’t fly in this slice of the multiverse, but sometimes our in-game worlds disagree.
The people behind cheats are organized, illegal groups that pick apart every piece of data within our games to look for some way to make cheating possible. These bad guys are not just some script kiddies poking around with code they found online. They are a collective who profit from exploiting the hard work of game developers across the industry.
But cheat developers are flawed (clearly – they have to pretend to be good at video games). Every time they cheat, they leave breadcrumbs behind. There are several ways we find those breadcrumbs, for example:
#TeamRICOCHET’s kernel-level driver for PC that runs as you play the game
Server-side and client-side detections
Machine learning models that look for anomalies and examine matches
Anti-Cheat’s Replay Investigation Tool
Third-party hardware detections and more
How Are We Protecting Black Ops 6?
The number one thing both we and you care about is not losing another match to a cheater. A lot has been put into Black Ops 6 to upgrade security, but here is the goal we’re targeting: we want to catch and remove cheaters within one hour of them being in their first match.
This metric is called “Time to Action,” and we will be monitoring our progress internally and building technology to drive this number down.
During the Black Ops 6 Beta, our team was live testing a lot of its new tech to try and achieve this goal. Weekend One was a stumble. In the past, we’ve used data from console players during Beta Weekend One to train and test our systems. Put simply, even though we love our friends who game on PC, it’s nice to have a weekend to stress test systems without the risk of cheaters. Since we had to protect the game without those stress tests, our new technology was so eager to catch cheaters, that it came in a little hot. When we recognized those errors, we immediately made adjustments to correct course in service of our new Time to Action milestone.
Cheaters were able to complete around 10 multiplayer matches during Weekend One before being removed. After tweaking our systems and deploying new detection methods for Weekend Two, we cut that time in half to 5 matches. That timing achieved our Time to Action goal. In fact, 25% of all Weekend Two bans happened during the first match a cheater ever played.
But removing someone after they cheat isn’t perfect, so we are ramping up detections to try to stop even more cheaters before they load into a game. During the beta we stopped over 12,000 confirmed cheating accounts before they ever saw the inside of a match.
Black Ops 6 on Day One is going to launch with a variety of updated anti-cheat tech. To name a few:
An updated version of the kernel-level driver. Note: All features in the October 25 update will protect any title that uses the driver, including Call of Duty®: Warzone™.
All mitigations, including Damage Shield, Disarm, Splat, Hallucination, and others will be live.
New machine-learning behavioral systems, focused on speed of detection.
New machine-learning detection models to analyze gameplay to combat aim bots.
Upgrades when Ranked Play launches, which include continuous examinations to determine if leaderboard placements are accurate. More on Ranked Play updates in a future blog closer the mode’s launch.
For Call of Duty: Warzone specifically, we’ve deployed new mitigations to interrupt cheaters. Stay tuned for a future report to learn about those new tricks.
We’re always looking for those breadcrumbs to find the bad actors and get them out of the game. That’s our commitment to the community.
What’s Ahead
While #TeamRICOCHET continues to develop and deploy client and server-side anti-cheat systems, we’re looking at what comes next. Fighting cheats today – on the client where illicit programs are activated – is a little like battling on a bad guy’s home turf: it is their machine and their code.
Kernel-Level Drivers on PC have enhanced anti-cheat’s reach, but cheaters are already offering cheats that go beyond the kernel, even going as far to utilize special PC hardware that is designed entirely for attacking games and enabling cheating.
What our team has been working on for the future is a suite of tools that use AI to find and fight cheaters.
Today, cheaters can run and hide but a trail exists. What if that trail disappears? That is what the team has been working on. Cheat developers can’t hide player behavior. How people play – the legit, the phony, the good, and the bad – gives us information and we use that to build ways to pick those bad folks out of a lineup.
We already have data from cheaters but to help build out profiles for those God-tier players we examine the data from the Call of Duty League – where every match is recorded, and every stat is preserved.
There’s more in progress around what we’re doing with AI beyond behavioral models and as work continues, we’ll share what we can.
Our Commitment
Cheating is a frustrating issue across the industry. But our goal is to get bad actors out of our game as fast as possible. Our NorthStar is within one hour.
We’ve had a lot of wins over the years – taking down several cheat developers completely, shutting out third-party hardware, flinging cheaters toward the ground at Mach-speed – but we know those wins don’t make you feel any better when you get beamed by a cheater from across the map.
We can’t tell you cheaters will disappear forever because of the tech we’re preparing for launch. But everyone at #TeamRICOCHET will use every tool we can to keep fighting to deliver a fair and fun experience for you! And if the right tool doesn’t exist, we’ll make it ourselves. Anti-cheat is a constant effort, and we are always working to stop and thwart the efforts of cheaters. It’s an effort we’re deeply committed to, through and through.
Keep an eye out for updates in future Progress Reports and across social media, particularly the @CODUpdates X (formerly known as Twitter) social account for real-time issues.
For more information on Activision games, follow @Activision on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and Instagram.
Zombies prep: equipment, power-ups, augments, and more, part 1
Round Based Zombies: Overview and Recap
With two Round-Based Zombies maps at launch, and a third map arriving before the end of the year, the time has come to fully prepare for tackling the terrors of Terminus, Liberty Falls, and this extensive game mode!
Past Blogs have covered many aspects, gameplay systems, and innovations in Zombies. Here’s a recap related to all of this, before we confirm all the launch content, including a Loadout Overview, unlockable Augments, Equipment, and full list of GobbleGums available at launch.
Links to Previous Zombies Intel
Click on the following links for more information on:
This blog also contains intel regarding updates and changes to the game confirmed for launch. Read on for all the details.
Zombies Launch Updates from Treyarch
Liberty Falls Updates
Since the debut of early gameplay footage at Call of Duty NEXT back in August, the Zombies team at Treyarch has continued to iterate on the look, feel, and sound of Liberty Falls to crank up the map’s creepiness factor. Heading into launch, players can expect a moodier visual tone to the map, along with gorier set dressings and new environmental audio to more intensely reflect the chaos of a very recent dimensional breach.
Additional atmospheric elements related to the map’s Main Quest will also be present throughout Liberty Falls as players begin to solve the mysteries waiting for them in the wake of the undead incursion. And of course, there might be a brand-new Easter Egg song from Treyarch’s Kevin Sherwood to discover along the way...
HUD Touch-ups
The UI team has also continued to update the game’s modular HUD, touching up some of the Zombies-specific elements that can appear across most HUD preset options and adding new settings. These updates include:
Character portraits added to the lower-left corner by default
General alignment and color adjustments made across the entire HUD
Perk icons now positioned closer together
Zombies-specific widgets added for certain in-game actions
In-game GobbleGum reward animation added
Visibility sliders added to allow players to fine-tune or completely disable additional HUD elements, including Score Feed, Medals & Notifications, Minimap Opacity, Weapon & Equipment Information, and more.
Terminus Island Recon
Terror Island: A Tour of Terminus
From the long disused mining tunnels to its use as a WWII resupply depot, to the structures built as part of a shuttered CIA Blacksite, there’s a wealth of discoveries to be made across Terminus Island. Given the more recent evidence of heinous biological experimentations led by the nefarious Project Janus group, our newly freed Requiem crew will need to stay on their toes.
Cells and Guard Station
At the top of the prison sits a series of Holding Cells where the Requiem crew have been biding their time for the last half decade. The paint is peeling, the ducts are rusting, and there’s an odd smell coming from one of the air vents. Adjacent is the Guard Station where your handlers (Peck and Strauss) have barricaded themselves, as well as a lower interrogation room, with the remnants of a torture session still visible.
Security Overlook and Control Center
A cracked concrete overlook lies below a guard tower, which leads to a two-level control center with monitor banks and a well-stocked armory. Further down the embankment the prison is built on, the remains of a Project Janus Communications structure seem to have been well-maintained, until the recent incursion.
Living Quarters, Storage, and Mess Hall
The large storage area leads down an unloading ramp to the Rec yard, and on either side is an older structure built in 1942, when the U.S. Navy established a Resupply Base on the island. Nearby is an Engineering room, stocked with electronics and tables to tinker on.
Sea Tower
Explore the Dark Aether Reactor (DAR) Sea Tower, a gun emplacement atop an octagonal tower, with attached metal ramps and gantries (and an ascender) all the way down to the gigantic concrete footings.
Gun Battery Platform
A massive WWII vintage gun emplacement rests atop a thick concrete platform, seemingly modified by Project Janus in recent years as part of an unusual experiment.
Sea Caves and Mining Tunnels
Below the outer areas of the island prison are a pair of subterranean tunnels, one naturally occurring, and the other man-made, dug out toward the end of the 19th century, when the island’s long-mined out coal reserves were being greedily exploited.
Bio Lab
An impressive feat of engineering awaits on the island; a large sea cave has been completely hollowed out, and a large-scale secret research facility has been constructed within the cavern walls. Multi-level gantry walkways and stairs are clamped to the outer walls, and what appears to be an experimentation chamber lies within.
Inclined Lift and Maglev Elevator
Though the Bio Lab is set within a huge cavern, it has multiple pathways outward thanks to an Inclined Lift that periodically trundles up to the top level behind the living quarters. Further around the Bio Lab gantries is an operational Project Janus-constructed Maglev Elevator.
Shipwreck
Despite the radar buoys in close proximity, the remains of a shipping tanker indicate just how treacherous the waters around Terminus Island are. Slowly rusting from stern to prow, the salt waters have eaten away at the hull, though the main deck is still seemingly accessible.
The Outer Islands
To the northwest is Temple Island, with its odd pillar-like carvings. Due east is Castle Rock Island, named after the natural stone edifice jutting from the tidal sands that appears to be an old fortification. The largest of the three outcrops is Crab Island, where Project Janus disposal crews would discard the remains of their science team’s unwholesome experiments.
The seas around Terminus Island are also home to something more foreboding: a terror in the water, writhing up from an irradiated cloud and violently attacking those that remain outside the confines of the prison for too long…
Liberty Falls Recon
Almost Hell, West Virginia: A Tour of Liberty Falls
The atmosphere of Liberty Falls, which takes place concurrently with the aftermath of the dimensional breach over on Terminus Island, feels a world away from the dark, stormy waters of the Philippine Sea and the massive concrete prison Grigori Weaver and his crew are fighting to escape from.
Players must explore the once-idyllic, now horrific small West Virginian town of Liberty Falls, whose residents have either fled or barricaded themselves into the settlement in a last desperate attempt to survive. By the time you arrive – under the watchful eye of Project Janus Security Chief John Blanchard – the town is overrun, and the battle seems well and truly lost.
Here’s a closer look at the Liberty Falls locations you’ll be able to explore:
Pump & Pay
You begin your battles against the swarms of rotting townspeople from a gas station rooftop vantage point. This soon becomes a disadvantage when you realize how nimble zombies are at reaching you. If you’re a glutton for punishment, switch on the Rampage Inducer here to speed up the action. Otherwise, descend to the ground and bear witness to the true horrors that have befallen this cursed hamlet.
Motor Lodge
The ironically named Rest E-Z Motor Lodge is one of the first structures you’ll investigate after scrambling down from the gas station. Partly ablaze with the word “HELP” daubed across the roof, this is seemingly an epicenter of zombie activity, with shambling horrors crashing out of rooms on the ground and upper floors.
Olly’s Comics
In the southern corner of town is the local comic shop run by Olly. Best not think about what happened to him. The shop caters to the true collector, with both the latest and back issues of “Charged Up,” “Heavy Space,” and “Odd Stories” on sale at reasonable prices. But most folks come here for the life-sized statue of Aetherella to pose with, star of the comic line of the same name.
Fuller’s Liberty Lanes
An old-fashioned bowling alley comprised of a snack bar and small arcade has been overrun with the undead. The lanes themselves seem to be just wide enough to herd larger zombie hordes without getting trapped and ripped apart... but looks can be deceiving.
Savings & Loan
The Bank of Liberty Falls is a grand stone edifice and seems to have been well barricaded before the baying hordes overran the place. That’s not to say this a safe place to visit, but it’s centrally located with fine marbled floors, only somewhat tarnished by the wreckage, strewn debris, and unpleasant fluids.
Holy Falls Church
This neo-gothic house of worship becomes more terrifying the further inside you investigate it. Placed on a plateau at the highest point in town, a dimensional anomaly seems to have fully enveloped the interior.
“The Alamo”
Judging by the sandbags, razor wire and other defenses, the bank's rooftop is where the last surviving members of the Project Janus response teams made their last stand. You'll find everything you need here....
Augments Overview
Equip Augments to your Perk-A-Colas, Ammo Mods and Field Upgrades to modify their performance.
Recap: Augments are unlockable gameplay advantages you can apply to every Perk-a-Cola, Ammo Mod, and Field Upgrade in the game, and provide a rich and innovative customization experience, allowing you to invest into research between matches. Learn more about Augments here.
There are 108 Augments available to unlock and equip at the game’s launch, divided as follows:
Perk-a-Colas: Eight, each with six Augments (48).
Ammo Mods: Five, each with six Augments (30).
Field Upgrades: Five, each with six Augments (30).
Researching and Choosing Augments
Augment Research: The key to unlocking the full potential of your loadouts is Augment Research. This unlocks at Player Level 11.
Once you research and unlock individual Augments, they can be chosen before the start of a match for each individual Perk, Ammo Mod, or Field Upgrade. To start researching an Augment, simply select which item you’d like to research in the menu and start earning XP in-game to make progress toward unlocking the Augment.
Each item has two available Augment slots: one for a Major, and one for a Minor Augment.
Expect three Major Augments to choose from, per item. A Major Augment offers a substantial advantage to the behavior of the item, usually during use.
Expect three Minor Augments to choose from, per item. A Minor Augment offers a limited advantage to the item, usually during use.
The depth of the Augments customization experience becomes apparent as you learn the different effects of each Augment, and how they stack and affect other upgrades across the game. This subsequently allows you to customize your Augments for your style of play, whether solo or squad-based.
If you’ve played a particular role in your squad – as a healer for example – you may already have a good idea of which Augments you should search for, unlock, and employ along with other related power-ups to optimize your team’s dynamics and survivability!
Perk-A-Colas (8) and Augments (48)
Currency to access Perk-a-Colas: Essence
Recap: If you’re after a tasty beverage that also has the benefit of granting abilities to aid you and your teammates’ survival chances, then get ready to hunt down your preferred vending machines, as Perk-a-Colas are back and with more of a kick than ever: For Black Ops 6 Zombies, every Perk-a-Cola can comes with up to six Augment options to choose from (three Minor, three Major).
Perks are purchased in-game using Essence and have been designed to offer a wide variety of bonuses that suit your style of play, allowing you to choose the order and number you need. Each time you purchase a new Perk, the Essence cost increases, and your Perk collection – displayed along the bottom of your HUD – lasts as long as you do: If you’re downed, expect to lose Perks depending on how many you’ve obtained, and how long you’re downed for.
At launch, expect to access the following Perk Machines:
Jugger-Nog: Increase maximum health by 100.
Quick Revive: Reduce the health regen delay time by 50%. Reduce the time it takes to revive an ally by 50%.
Speed Cola: Increase reload and armor replating speed bonus by 30%.
Stamin-Up: Increase movement speed.
PhD Flopper: Immunity to all self-inflicted damage and status effects. Dive to prone triggers an explosion, which increases the higher you fall. Immunity from fall damage while diving prone.
Deadshot Daiquiri: Aiming down sight moves to enemy critical location. Increase critical damage to enemies.
Elemental Pop: Every bullet you fire has a small chance to apply a random Ammo Mod effect.
Melee Macchiato: Replace weapon gun butt with a deadly punch that sends enemies flying.
Here is a complete list of Augments for each of the Perk-a-Colas available at launch:
Perk-A-Cola Augments
Jugger-Nog
Increases maximum health.
Major Augments
PROBIOTIC: Slightly increase maximum health with Jugger-Nog.
TURTLE SHELL: Armor acts as a shield on your back, completely absorbing damage to your back. No damage mitigation when hit from the front.
REACTIVE ARMOR: When an armor plate breaks, nearby normal enemies are stunned for a short time.
Minor Augments
RETALIATION: Deal bonus damage while health is low.
HARDENED PLATES: Armor plates have more damage mitigation.
HARD TARGET: While Tactical Sprinting, projectile damage is reduced.
QUARTERBACK: Use equipment while sprinting.
HOT FOOT: Gain a speed boost after your equipment kills an enemy.
Speed Cola
Reload weapons and replate armor faster.
Major Augments
SUPERCHARGED: Field Upgrades recharge a bit faster.
CLASSIC FORMULA: Reload speed is even faster.
PHANTOM RELOAD: Weapon magazines are slowly refilled over time.
Minor Augments
SPEEDY ROULETTE: The Mystery Box settles much faster.
QUICK SWAP: Swap weapons faster.
FAST PITCHER: Deploy equipment faster.
Deadshot Daiquiri
Drink to improve ADS precision and increase critical damage.
Major Augments
DEAD HEAD: Further increase in critical damage.
DEAD FIRST: Deal double critical damage if an enemy is at full health.
DEAD AGAIN: Critical hits have a chance of adding a bullet to your magazine.
Minor Augments
DEAD BREAK: Increase damage to armor pieces.
DEAD DRAW: Reduce hip-fire spread.
DEAD SET: Reduce gun movement while performing advanced movement.
Quick Revive
Recover health and revive allies faster.
Major Augments
EMT: Reviving an ally allows them to keep all of the Perks on their bleed-out bar.
EQUIVALENT EXCHANGE: Killing an enemy while downed will revive you and remove Quick Revive. This can be done up to three times.
DYING WISH: On lethal damage, become immune to all damage for two seconds and keep one health. Quick Revive is removed on use.
Minor Augments
SWIFT RECOVERY: Reviving an ally increases both of your movement speeds for a short time.
KARMIC RETURN: Reviving an ally heals you to full health.
SLOW DEATH: Increase your time in last stand.
Elemental Pop
Attacks can trigger random Ammo Mods.
Major Augments
CITRUS FOCUS: If a weapon has an Ammo Mod applied, Elemental Pop will only activate that one.
IMPERIL PEACH: Enemies that hit you have a chance to trigger a random Ammo Mod.
ELECTRIC CHERRY: Reloading creates an electric damage discharge that damages and stuns nearby normal enemies. The emptier the magazine, the stronger the damage.
PINEAPPLE BLAST: Equipment can also trigger a random Ammo Mod.
CHILL BERRY: Slightly reduce all Ammo Mod cooldowns.
PHD Flopper
Explosive dive to prone and immunity to self-inflicted explosive damage.
Major Augments
GRAVITY MD: Just falling from heights creates explosions.
DR RAM: Tactical Sprint knocks down and damages base zombies.
PHD SLIDER: Sliding into enemies triggers explosions.
Minor Augments
ENVIRONMENTALIST: Become immune to environmental damage while sliding.
EOD TECHNICIAN: Slightly reduce height and distance requirements for explosions.
TRIBOLOGIST: Sliding distance and speed are increased.
Melee Macchiato
Replace weapon gun butt with a deadly punch.
Major Augments
EXPRESSO: All melee attacks are slightly faster.
VAMPIRIC EXTRACTION: Melee attacks heal a small amount of your health.
TRIPLE SHOT: Your punch can hit multiple enemies at once.
Minor Augments
STICK ’N MOVE: Backpedal speed is increased after a successful melee attack.
STRENGTH TRAINING: Your punch can one-hit kill normal enemies for longer.
HIDDEN IMPACT: Melee kills reload a portion of your held weapon.
Ammo Mods (5) and Augments (30)
Currency to access Ammo Mods: Salvage
Recap: Along with Rarity and Pack-a-Punch capabilities (showcased in this blog), your Primary and Melee Weapons can be outfitted with an upgrade known as an Ammo Mod. Obtained in-game via a purchase at the Arsenal Machine using Salvage, Ammo Mods grant the affected weapon a percentage chance of dealing a special additional effect upon a successful projectile impact. Only one Ammo Mod can be applied to the weapon at a time, though you can purchase a new Ammo Mod as necessary.
At launch, expect to access five Ammo Mods, some of which require you to be a specific Player Level. Each Ammo Mod has six Augments to unlock and choose from, to further bolster the following base effects:
Brain Rot: Bullets deal toxic damage. Each bullet has the chance to turn a Normal or Special enemy into an ally.
Cryo Freeze: Bullets deal frost damage. Each bullet has a chance to slow Normal or Special enemies.
Dead Wire: Bullets deal electrical damage. Each bullet has a chance to stun any Normal and Special enemy, generating a field that deals electric damage to nearby enemies.
Napalm Burst: Bullets deal fire damage. Each bullet has a chance to ignite Normal and Special enemies.
Shadow Rift: Bullets deal shadow damage. Each bullet has a chance to spawn a black hole if striking Normal or Special enemies, warping nearby zombies away and dropping some from the air at high speed.
Progression: Ammo Mods Unlocks
Ammo Mod - Player Level
DEAD WIRE 0
NAPALM BURST 6
CRYO FREEZE 14
BRAIN ROT 27
SHADOW RIFT 44
AMMO MOD RESEARCH 11
Ammo Mod Augments (ZM)
Brain Rot
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 27
Bullets deal toxic damage. Each bullet has a chance to temporarily turn a normal or special enemy into an ally.
Major Augments
PLAGUE: The charmed enemy has a chance to turn other enemies.
PHEROMONE: The charmed enemy distracts nearby normal and special enemies for a short time.
BIG GAME: Brain Rot can charm elite enemies.
Minor Augments
EXTENSION: Brain Rot duration is slightly increased.
HASTE: Brain Rot cooldown is slightly reduced.
EXPLOSIVE: Charmed enemies explode at the end of Brain Rot’s duration, dealing toxic damage.
Cryo Freeze
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 14
Bullets deal frost damage. Each bullet has a chance to slow a normal or special enemy and increase the damage they receive.
Major Augments
BIG GAME: Cryo Freeze can slow elite enemies.
ICE CLOUD: Enemies that are killed while frozen may leave a cloud that slows enemies.
FROZEN STIFF: Enemies are frozen in place.
Minor Augments
EXTENSION: Slightly increase the slow duration.
FREEZER BURN: Slightly increase damage to frozen enemies.
LIQUID NITROGEN: Significantly increase your chance for Cryo Freeze to activate.
Dead Wire
Available: Unlocked Immediately
Bullets deal electric damage. Each bullet has a chance to stun a normal or special enemy, causing them to generate an electric damage field.
Major Augments
CHAIN LIGHTNING: The stunned enemy can spread the stun to others.
BIG GAME: Dead Wire can stun elite enemies.
LIGHTNING STRIKE: A bolt of lightning strikes from above, stunning all normal and special enemies in the area.
Minor Augments
HIGH VOLTAGE: Dead Wire deals slightly more damage.
HASTE: Dead Wire cooldown is slightly reduced.
EXTENSION: The stun and electric field last longer.
Napalm Burst
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 6
Bullets deal fire damage. Each bullet has a chance to apply a burn effect on normal and special enemies, dealing damage over time.
Major Augments
BIG GAME: Napalm Burst can burn elite enemies.
THERMITE: Increase burn effect damage.
FIREBOMB: Burned enemies explode on death, spreading the fire to nearby enemies.
Minor Augments
EXTENSION: Increase the burn duration.
INCENDIARY: Each damage tick has a small chance to spread to a nearby enemy.
CONTACT BURN: Initial burn effect deals more damage.
Shadow Rift
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 44
Bullets deal shadow damage. Each bullet has a chance to spawn a black hole on a normal or special enemy, warping away those nearby and dropping some from the air at lethal speed.
Major Augments
BIG GAME: Shadow Rift can activate on elite enemies.
TOPPLE DANGER: Warp one enemy that deals shadow damage to others nearby. Normal enemies are knocked down while special enemies are stunned.
EXPLOSIVE RAIN: Enemies that are dropped from portals will explode on contact with the ground.
Minor Augments
HASTE: Shadow Rift cooldown is reduced.
TARGETED: Dropped enemies will fall on other enemies.
SUPERMASSIVE: The singularity’s lethal radius is increased and can kill more enemies.
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Zombies prep: equipment, power-ups, augments, and more, part 2
Field Upgrades (5) and Augments (30)
Mastery Badges available for this Equipment Type
Currency to access Ammo Mods: Salvage
Field Upgrades are selected prior to a Match, within your Loadout Menu. During a match, you can also swap to a different Field Upgrade at any time by using the in-game menu. Note that your cooldown will reset upon switching to a different Field Upgrade.
At launch, expect to choose the following Field Upgrades:
Aether Shroud: Phase into the Dark Aether, becoming hidden from enemy detection.
Frenzied Guard: Repair armor and force all enemies in the area to target you. During this time, kills repair a portion of your armor.
Healing Aura: Summons beams of energy down on yourself and allies to instantly revive and heal to full health.
Energy Mine: Create a mine of pure energy that detonates in rapid succession, dealing lethal electric damage.
Dark Flare: You generate a massive energy beam that deals lethal shadow damage. The beam penetrates everything in its path.
Progression: Field Upgrades Unlocks
Field Upgrades - Player Level
ENERGY MINE 0
FRENZIED GUARD 9
DARK FLARE 20
HEALING AURA 33
AETHER SHROUD 47
AMMO MOD RESEARCH 11
Field Upgrade Augments (ZM)
Aether Shroud
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 47
Phase into the Dark Aether and become temporarily hidden from enemy detection.
Major Augments
GROUP SHROUD: Nearby players are also cloaked.
BURST DASH: Warp forward a short distance, killing all normal enemies in your path.
VOID SHEATH: Swap to your dedicated melee weapon as it’s imbued with Dark Aether energy. Kills allow you to stay in Aether Shroud for longer.
Minor Augments
INSTANT RELOAD: Activation instantly reloads your currently held weapon.
EXTRA CHARGE: Increase max charges by one.
EXTENSION: Aether Shroud duration is significantly increased.
Dark Flare
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 20
Generate an energy beam that deals lethal shadow damage and penetrates everything in its path.
Major Augments
EXTENSION: Significantly increase Dark Flare duration.
SUPERNOVA: The beam is replaced with a sphere that damages nearby enemies as it travels. The ball detonates at the end of Dark Flare’s duration.
DARK PACT: Beam heals and revives other players on contact.
Minor Augments
BROAD BEAM: Significantly increase the size of the beam.
HEAVY SHADOW: The beam slows enemies on contact.
EXTRA CHARGE: Increase Max Charges by one.
Frenzied Guard
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 9
Repair armor to full and force all enemies in the area to temporarily target you. Armor takes all damage during this time.
Major Augments
PHALANX: Teammates can also repair armor from kills while near you.
RETRIBUTION: Trigger an explosion on activation. Normal enemies that melee the player are damaged and knocked down.
FRENZY FIRE: While Frenzied, use ammo from stock.
Minor Augments
REPAIR BOOST: Repair more armor per kill.
EXTENSION: Increase Frenzied Guard duration.
RALLY: On activation, repair all nearby teammates’ armor to full.
Healing Aura
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 33
Heal all nearby players immediately.
Major Augments
RESILIENCE: All affected players have their health regeneration delay reduced and their rate of healing increased temporarily.
ENDURING RADIANCE: The beams and their healing effects persist for a short time after leaving the area of effect.
PERSISTENCE: Revived players keep all Perks on their bleed-out bar.
Minor Augments
INNER STRENGTH: Affected player damage is slightly increased for a short time.
PROTECTION: Healed players have damage slightly mitigated for a short time.
STOIC PRESENCE: On activation, Special and Elite enemies are stunned while normal enemies are knocked down.
Energy Mine
Available: Unlocked Immediately
Create a mine of pure energy that detonates three times, dealing lethal electric damage.
Major Augments
SCATTER: The Energy Mine will split into three mines that scatter and detonate one time each.
TURRET: Instead of a mine, deploy a turret that shoots at the nearest enemy.
CAROUSEL: Three Energy Mines will float around you, detonating when an enemy is nearby.
Minor Augments
FREQUENCY BOOST: Increase detonation count and duration of Energy Mine.
EXTRA CHARGE: Increase max charges by one.
SIREN: Energy mine now attracts nearby normal enemies for a short time.
Round-Based Zombies: Match Preparation
The Zombies Loadout (Updated)
Locate the Loadout Option in the Weapons Menu. It is here you’ll choose and save your Zombies Loadouts. Compared to Multiplayer, the Loadouts for Zombies are set up a little differently. The Zombies Loadout is comprised of the following:
Weapon (Primary)
Melee Weapon
Field Upgrade
Tactical
Lethal
GobbleGum Pack
Weapons(Primary or Secondary)
Choose the armament you wish to drop into a Zombies Match with. These can be Base Weapons, Builds, or Blueprints. Gunsmith is available for these weapons. Choose from the following weapon types:
Assault Rifles
SMGs
Shotguns
LMGs
Marksman Rifles
Sniper Rifles
Pistols
Launchers
Weapon (Melee)
Your second Loadout weapon is a close-quarters armament with no ranged ordnance. Gunsmith is available for this weapon (Cosmetics only).
Field Upgrade
Though they share the same name, Zombies Field Upgrades are distinct from those in Multiplayer, though they share the same cooldown and recharge mechanism. In Zombies, Field Upgrades are powerful devices that offer a chargeable elemental ability, followed by a cooldown period after each use when the Field Upgrade recharges, ready to be used again. You’ll earn faster recharges simply by eliminating enemies, not with the passage of time. Look for a complete list of Field Upgrades and the Augments you can fit to each of them, later in this Blog.
Tactical Equipment
These are limited-quantity items that range from healing to disorientation devices, designed to offer a non-lethal advantage in combat.
Lethal Equipment
These are limited-quantity items that harm enemies, usually via an explosion.
GobbleGum Packs
Crack your teeth as well as the skulls of the undead with a variety of custom GobbleGum Packs, based on your stored reserves of this killer candy! Pick a single Pack to bring with you; with each Pack containing five different types of single-use GobbleGums. During a match, you access these via a special confectionary machine that holds each GobbleGum in your pack and spits out one randomly once you interact with it. For more information on how this works, read more here. Look for a complete list of GobbleGums available at launch later in this Blog.
Weapons Detail Note: The Primary and Melee Weapons you can choose from, along with Gunsmith and Attachment Intel, is covered in the Weapons Detail Blog, available here. Additionally, you have an additional space to carry a second (non-Melee) weapon that can be sourced from ground loot, a Wall Buy, or the Mystery Box.
Mastery Badges Note: Almost every weapon and equipment in your Zombies Loadout – Weapon, Melee, Field Upgrade, Tacticals and Lethals – have their own Medal Challenge (with associated XP Reward), and all individual Equipment items have a specific set of Mastery Badge Challenges to complete. Consult the Launch Comms: Progression Blog for more Intel.
Loadout Overview: Tacticals (7)
Mastery Badges available for this Equipment Type
Accessing Tacticals Note: Your Loadout allows you to choose from one of five Tacticals, providing you’ve unlocked them by Player Level Progression. Tacticals can also be constructed in-game at a Crafting Table. Two additional Tacticals (Cymbal Monkey and LT53 Kazimir) are only accessible in-game via ground loot and the Crafting Table.
Progression: Tacticals Unlocks
Tactical - Player Level
CONCUSSION 0
SMOKE 17
STIM SHOT 30
DECOY 35
SHOCK CHARGE 42
CYMBAL MONKEY 18
LT53 KAZIMIR 48
Available Tacticals (ZM)
Concussion Grenade (MP, ZM)
Available: Unlocked Immediately
Salvage Cost to Build (In-Game): 250
Grenade that slows victim’s movement and aiming.
Smoke Grenade (MP, ZM)
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 17
Salvage Cost to Build (In-Game): 500
Deploys a smoke screen that blocks vision and automated targeting systems.
Stim Shot (MP, ZM)
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 30
Salvage Cost to Build (In-Game): 250
Combat stim that heals wounds and refreshes Tactical Sprint.
Decoy Grenade (MP, ZM)
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 35
Salvage Cost to Build (In-Game): 500
Grenade that simulates footsteps and gunfire sounds to confuse enemies. Sticks to surfaces.
Shock Charge (MP, ZM)
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 42
Salvage Cost to Build (In-Game): 500
Electrical trap that sticks to surfaces and electrocutes enemies, stunning them.
Cymbal Monkey (ZM In-Game Only)
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 18
Salvage Cost to Build (In-Game): 1,000
Accessed via ground loot or a Crafting Table during a Match. Attracts zombies for a short duration before exploding.
LT53 Kazimir (ZM In-Game Only)
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 48
Salvage Cost to Build (In-Game): 1,500
Accessed via ground loot or a Crafting Table during a Match. Creates a small singularity that pulls in and kills enemies.
Loadout Overview: Lethals (8)
Mastery Badges available for this Equipment Type
Accessing Lethals Note: Your Loadout allows you to choose from one of eight Lethals, providing you’ve unlocked them by Player Level Progression. Lethals can also be constructed in-game at a Crafting Table.
Progression: Lethals Unlocks
Lethal - Player Level
C4 14
IMPACT GRENADE 26
MOLOTOV 32
FRAG 0
STICKY GRENADE 9
THERMO GRENADE 21
BLAST TRAP 41
COMBAT AXE 53
Available Lethals (ZM)
Frag Grenade (MP, ZM)
Available: Unlocked Immediately
Salvage Cost to Build (In-Game): 250
Cookable fragmentation grenade.
Sticky Grenade (MP, ZM)
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 9
Salvage Cost to Build (In-Game): 250
Reliable sticky grenade with a timed fuse.
C4 (MP, ZM)
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 14
Salvage Cost to Build (In-Game): 400
Sticky explosive with large damage radius. Detonate remotely with your Lethal Equipment Button. Double-tap your Interact Button for a quick detonation.
Thermo Grenade (MP, ZM)
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 21
Salvage Cost to Build (In-Game): 350
Creates a large fuel-air cloud that explodes after a duration.
Impact Grenade (MP, ZM)
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 26
Salvage Cost to Build (In-Game): 350
Precision grenade that explodes on impact.
Molotov (MP, ZM)
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 32
Salvage Cost to Build (In-Game): 350
Thrown incendiary weapon creates a patch of flames.
Blast Trap (MP, ZM)
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 41
Salvage Cost to Build (In-Game): 350
Planted explosive device detonates when enemies come near.
Combat Axe (MP, ZM)
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 53
Thrown axe that kills enemies in one hit. Bounces off surfaces.
Support Equipment (Scorestreaks, Armor, Self-Revive) (ZM)
Mastery Badges available for this Equipment Type
Recap: Between bouts of undead culling during a match, access the Crafting Table and you’ll be able to spend Salvage to construct an impressive array of Support equipment, which also occasionally drops as ground loot. The following are available and are only available to use during the match you’re playing.
Available Support Equipment (ZM)
Armor Plate (ZM)
Available: Unlocked Immediately
Accessed: Unlocked In-Game, per Match
Salvage Cost to Build (In-Game): 50 per Plate
Refills Armor when used. Also available as ground loot. Note the Armor Wall Buys increase the number of plates you can carry from one to two, or three. Additional plates are crafted or looted from the ground.
ARC-XD (ZM)
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 5
Accessed: Unlocked In-Game, per Match
Salvage Cost to Build (In-Game): 1,000
Explosive RC car that emits small Aether Blasts
LDBR (ZM, MP)
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 21
Accessed: Unlocked In-Game, per Match
Salvage Cost to Build (In-Game): 1,250
Launch a missile bombardment in a targeted area for a duration.
Hellstorm (ZM, MP)
Available: Unlocked Immediately
Accessed: Unlocked In-Game, per Match
Salvage Cost to Build (In-Game): 1,250
Control a long-range missile with brake and boost capabilities and secondary missiles.
Sentry Turret (ZM, MP)
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 12
Accessed: Unlocked In-Game, per Match
Salvage Cost to Build (In-Game): 1,500
Automated turret that scans for and attacks nearby enemies in a forward-facing cone.
Mangler Cannon (ZM)
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 20
Accessed: Unlocked In-Game, per Match
Salvage Cost to Build (In-Game): 1,250
All the ballistic power of a Mangler, at your fingertips.
Chopper Gunner (ZM, MP)
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 45
Accessed: Unlocked In-Game, per Match
Salvage Cost to Build (In-Game): 2,500
Take control of the door gun turret on an assault chopper.
Mutant Injection (ZM)
Available: Unlocked at Player Level 39
Accessed: Unlocked In-Game, per Match
Salvage Cost to Build (In-Game): 2,500
Temporarily transforms you into a Mangler… with all the bells and whistles.
Self-Revive (ZM)
Available: Unlocked Immediately
Accessed: Unlocked In-Game, per Match
Salvage Cost to Build (In-Game): 1,500
Use when downed to revive yourself. Maximum of three craftable Self-Revives per Match.
GobbleGums: Launch Overview
GobbleGum Rarity
Recap: GobbleGums come in a variety of rarities: Rare, Epic, Legendary, and Ultra, with the general rule that the higher the rarity, the more powerful the effect of the GobbleGum. There are also Whimsical GobbleGums, which produce amusing results that don’t typically affect gameplay.
Availability and Launch Variety
As discussed in previous blogs here and here, GobbleGums are single-use power-ups that are chosen and kept in your Loadout. Packs of five are brought into each match based on the GobbleGums you’ve unlocked and/or collected. Additional GobbleGums are earned in a variety of ways, including simply by playing Zombies and surviving rounds, or by Store purchase. Here it the complete list of all GobbleGums available to earn at launch:
Progression: GobbleGum Rewards
GobbleGum - Player Level
KILL JOY 5
STOCK OPTION 8
WHO'S KEEPING SCORE? 11
CACHE BACK 15
ANYWHERE BUT HERE 21
EXIT STRATEGY 23
SODA FOUNTAIN 26
PROFIT SHARING 29
WALL TO WALL CLEARANCE 32
FREE FIRE 36
ON THE HOUSE 38
NOWHERE BUT HERE 42
IDLE EYES 45
WONDERBAR! 51
HIDDEN POWER 54
Available GobbleGums (ZM)
Rare GobbleGums
Stock Option
(Lasts one minute) Ammo is taken from the player’s stockpile instead of their weapon’s magazine.
Kill Joy
Spawns an Insta-Kill Power-Up.
Anywhere But Here!
Instantly teleport to a random location. A concussive blast knocks away nearby zombies.
Cache Back
Spawns a Max Ammo Power-Up
Temporal Gift
(Activates on Next Time-Based Power-Up) Power-Up lasts longer.
Shields Up
(Lasts three minutes) Armor is twice as strong.
Arsenal Accelerator
(Lasts five minutes) Charge the player’s Field Upgrade faster.
Epic GobbleGums
Nowhere But There!
Instantly teleport to a random downed player. Instantly revive nearby players.
Who’s Keeping Score?
Spawns a Double Points Power-Up.
Free Fire
(Lasts 60 seconds) Firing weapons consumes no ammo. Does not work with Wonder Weapons.
Soda Fountain
(Activates on Perk purchase) The next Perk purchased gives an additional random Perk.
Profit Sharing
(Lasts two minutes) A portion of the essence you earn is also received by nearby players and vice versa.
Respin Cycle
Re-spins the weapon in the Mystery Box after it has settled to one of equal or higher rarity.
Exit Strategy
Activate exfil vote immediately. Reduce zombie spawns during exfil.
Legendary GobbleGums
Idle Eyes
(Lasts 30 seconds) All zombies ignore players and stand idle.
Wall Power
(Activates on Wall Buy) The next weapon bought off a wall comes Pack-A-Punched.
Crate Power
(Activates on Mystery Box spin) The next weapon taken from the Mystery Box comes Pack-A-Punched.
Phoenix Up
Revive all teammates and they keep their perks.
On the House
Spawns a Perk Can Power-Up.
Wall to Wall Clearance
(Lasts 30 Seconds) Wall Buys cost 10 Essence.
Immolation Liquidation
Spawns a Fire Sale Power-Up.
Ultra GobbleGums
Perkaholic
Gives the player all Perk-a-Colas in the map.
Near Death Experience
(Lasts three minutes) Revive or be revived simply by being near other players. Revived players keep all their perks.
Hidden Power
Upgrade your currently held weapon to Legendary rarity.
Wonderbar!
(Activates on next Mystery Box spin) The next weapon from the Mystery Box will be a Wonder Weapon.
Reign Drops
Spawns all the core Power-Ups at once.
Whimsical GobbleGums
Newtonian Negation
(Lasts three minutes) Zombies killed fall straight up.
Indiegestion
(Lasts three minutes) Zombies killed experience extreme flatulence.
Additional Access: Operators, Intel, and More!
Gathering all new and pertinent data, this section allows you to fully prepare for the forthcoming Zombies experience on October 25! Here’s what you need to know:
Build your optimal zombie-culling armament here, and then share it as a Global Weapon Build across Multiplayer and Call of Duty®: Warzone™ (at Season 01)! If you’ve built a weapon in a different mode (Multiplayer or Warzone), it will appear here along with all Attachments, both functional and cosmetic. You can then easily add it to your Loadout.
Weapon Select: Wonder Weapon (Weapons Menu)
Along with Gunsmith, Loadout, and Augments, any Wonder Weapons you may have previously unlocked, along with any associated Skins, are displayed here. This menu is simply for you to choose the preferred Skin for your Wonder Weapon, before obtaining it during a Match.
Operators Select: Dedicated Crew
The Operators Menu allows you to choose from every Black Ops 6 Operator, though the opposing factions present in Multiplayer (Rogue Black Ops and Crimson One) are not as critically important when facing horrific dimensional breaches. Therefore, expect a single Operator menu, with “Dedicated Crew Operators” (Grigori Weaver, Elizabeth Grey, Mackenzie “Mac” Carver, and Maya Aguinaldo) flagged. You are encouraged to play as one of these four characters in Zombies for an enhanced story experience and unique content. Consult the Launch Comms: Multiplayer Blog for biographies and unlock criteria for all Operators.
Barracks: Progression and Zombie Intel Access
Ensure you spend some time between matches in the Barracks Menu, as you’re able to confirm the following:
Progression: Your Player Level Progression is your main focus; unlocking levels 1-55 gradually allows access to all the different elements, items, power-ups, equipment and weaponry discussed in this blog. For example, you need to be level 11 to access Augment Research.
Challenges: Weapon Camos, Calling Cards, and Mastery Badges all have a substantial number of unlocks to undertake. Learn the techniques to unlock Weapon Camos, check all of your Calling Card Career, Hardened, Prestige, and Dark Ops Challenges, and track the Mastery Badges you’re unlocking for every weapon, Support Scorestreak, Lethal, Tactical, and Field Upgrade!
Customize: Ensure other players know exactly what you’ve unlocked during your time playing Zombies!
Zombie Intel: View the Audio Logs, Documents, and Artifacts you’ve discovered during your exploration of each Zombies map. Have you found everything? Need to listen or read intel again for clues to the Zombies storyline? Then this is the menu to come to!
Stats: View your Combat Record, Medal Collection, and check out your placement in the worldwide Leaderboard of Zombies players!
Progression Blog Note: Consult the Launch Comms: Progression Blog for full details on every aspect of the Barracks.
Black Ops 6: Unredacted Launch Comms Incoming!
Expect further critical intel to be unredacted in the coming days as we confirm additional launch content across Multiplayer and Zombies. Look for the following missives:
Launch Comms Blog 1: Multiplayer and More: Essential Intel on the Multiplayer Modes, Maps, Factions, and Operators Coming to Black Ops 6.
Launch Comms Blog 2: Zombies Mode Prep: Full Equipment, Power-Ups, Augments, GobbleGums, a Full Tour of Terminus and Liberty Falls, and Confirmed Launch Changes. You’re reading this blog now!
Launch Comms Blog 3: Weapons Hot: Primary, Secondary, and Melee Weapons Detail for Black Ops 6. Includes new details on the latest innovations across Gunsmith and Attachments.
Launch Comms Blog 4: Gear Up: Ensure you’re fully equipped for Black Ops 6 launch as we confirm all the launch Equipment (Tacticals, Lethals, Field Upgrades), Perks, Specialties, Wildcards, and Scorestreaks available.
Launch Comms Blog 5: Progression: Unlock your true potential as we detail the critical Player Level equipment you’ll need on day one, detailed intel on Classic Prestige and the available rewards, full info on Calling Cards, Reticles, and Mastery Badges Challenges. Plus: Are You Ready for a Deep Dive into the Weapon Camo System?
For more information, please visit www.callofduty.com and www.youtube.com/callofduty, and follow @Activision and @CallofDuty on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook. For Call of Duty Updates, follow @CODUpdates on X (formerly Twitter).
The road to Black Ops 6 launch: Preload and new user interface
The October 25 launch date for Call of Duty®: Black Ops 6 is just around the corner, meaning it’s almost time to start preloading the game so you can jump right in when it releases next week.
To prepare for launch, we’re delivering an update that combines the preload of Black Ops 6 and the rollout of the new Call of Duty user interface into a single download. This is one of the last steps in the Roadmap to Black Ops 6 Launch we discussed in August, with more coming in Season 01. Once the download is completed, players can check out the new UI immediately and be ready to play Black Ops 6 as soon as it is released. Here’s what you can expect in the pre-launch update arriving on Monday.
CONTENT SUMMARY
Preload and Play at Launch: Preload Black Ops 6 starting this Monday, October 21 at 9AM PT.
Separate Downloads: On most platforms, Black Ops 6 and Call of Duty: Warzone are separate downloads, offering more control over your files.
Greater File Control: Keep the titles and individual modes that you’re currently playing and uninstall the rest to free up storage space.
Meet the New UI: Access featured titles and modes on your Home page, previous titles under All Games, and the latest purchasable content under Store.
Faster Access to the Fun: Instantly load up Black Ops 6 at launch. Starting with Season 01, instantly access Call of Duty: Warzone as well.
Black Ops 6 Preload
Preloading for Black Ops 6 begins this Monday, October 21 at 9AM PT. Players who have pre-purchased the game or subscribe to select Game Pass plans can download Campaign, Multiplayer, and Zombies so they’re ready to go when Black Ops 6 officially releases on October 25.
To make the preload as smooth as possible, players who pre-purchased Black Ops 6 and already have Call of Duty installed will receive the Black Ops 6 preload as an automatic update to their existing install, similar to previous Call of Duty updates.
Players who pre-purchased Black Ops 6, but don’t already have Call of Duty installed can initiate the preload from their platform storefront.
The download will be larger for players who already have Call of Duty installed as they’re getting the new UI and Black Ops 6 at the same time.
Call of Duty: Warzone — A Separate Download
Call of Duty: Warzone™ content is not automatically included in the default download for Black Ops 6.
However, players who don’t already have Call of Duty: Warzone installed can still choose to download it alongside Black Ops 6 by selecting it in your platform’s install manager. Players can also download Call of Duty: Warzone at any point after their initial Black Ops 6 install from within the new Call of Duty user interface. We encourage players to download Call of Duty: Warzone to get the most out of their Call of Duty experience and prepare for some exciting updates coming in Season 01!
There will be no impact to this change for players who already have Call of Duty: Warzone installed – you will continue to receive game updates automatically as you have in the past.
Downloading Black Ops 6 with Call of Duty: Warzone
On most platforms, Black Ops 6 content will not be included in new Call of Duty: Warzone downloads.
Managing Your Call of Duty Storage Space
*Final UI subject to change, may vary by player.
With Black Ops 6 on the way, Call of Duty will take up more space on your device if you choose to keep all of your previous content installed since a new game is being added on top of your existing files.
Prepare for the Black Ops 6 download and future Call of Duty updates by actively managing what you have installed. To free up additional space, you can remove content that you’re no longer playing, including full titles and individual modes (e.g. uninstalling single player once you’ve finished the Campaign).
Players can uninstall content within the Call of Duty user interface or via their platform’s install manager. After content is removed, you can reinstall it at any point if you wish to return to those games or modes in the future.
A Tour of the New UI
On October 21, players can check out the new Call of Duty UI — formerly known as Call of Duty HQ — after downloading the pre-launch update.
At launch, the new interface will include three main hubs: Home, All Games, and Store. Each hub displays all of its content on one page, eliminating the need to scroll. Here’s a rundown of what you’ll find in each section.
Home
The new UI features a landing page that brings together a variety of Call of Duty content. The Home tab showcases various tiles which each serve different purposes:
Game Tiles – Unlike the previous Call of Duty UI, players will now be able to directly access games, which have their own self-contained user interfaces. The newest annual title – Black Ops 6 starting on October 25 – and Call of Duty: Warzone will be shown on the Home tab. Other games are accessible via the All Games tab.
Featured Tile – This tile can showcase a variety of top content such as modes, maps, and Battle Passes depending on what is new and most relevant at the time.
What’s Hot Row – Similar to today’s What’s Hot row, these tiles highlight new playlists, bundles, etc. and give players easy access to that content.
Last Played Tile – This tile gives players quick access to what they played most recently. When you first log in to the new interface, this tile will be a fourth What’s Hot option until you’ve played a game within the UI
Depending on your preference, you can access game content through both the Game Tiles and any modes or playlists that are elevated to the Featured Tile or What’s Hot Row.
All Games
Cycle to the All Games tab to view your full library of Call of Duty titles dating back to Call of Duty: Modern Warfare® (2019). Cross-launch into owned titles, purchase unowned titles, and manage your installations from here.
Store
This tab will give players a path to access the Call of Duty in-game stores and showcase any other top purchasable content. The full Call of Duty in-game stores will be accessible at the game-level of the UI within Black Ops 6, Call of Duty: Warzone, etc. This tab sends players to those full stores.
UI Evolution
The new UI will evolve over three initial phases, reaching its full capabilities with the start of Season 01.
Initially, there will be a transition period from October 21 through 24 when the new UI goes live before Black Ops 6 launches.
During these few days, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III and Call of Duty: Warzone will be the primary Game Tiles on the Home tab and players will cross-launch into those games. Modern Warfare III will retain its legacy UI. Call of Duty: Warzone will retain its legacy UI until the Season 01 update.
The Store tab will direct players into the full Modern Warfare III and Call of Duty: Warzone in-game stores via cross-launch.
When Black Ops 6 launches, it will replace Modern Warfare III, making Black Ops 6 and Call of Duty: Warzone the primary Game Tiles on the Home tab. Players will be able to instantly access Black Ops 6 and cross-launch into Call of Duty: Warzone.
Players who wish to continue playing Modern Warfare III can access it via cross-launch on the All Games tab or the Last Played Tile if that’s the content you’ve played most recently.
For players who have purchased Black Ops 6, the Store tab will now direct you to the full Black Ops 6 in-game store.
Black Ops 6 will have its own individual user interface designed to easily get players into the modes and content they want to play. Players can access Campaign, Multiplayer, and Zombies from the Black Ops 6 game UI. Look out for new updates to the gunsmith, playlist selection, and social showcase within Black Ops 6!
Phase 3: Season 01 ([Redacted])
When Season 01 begins, the UI will enter its fully realized state. Black Ops 6 and Call of Duty: Warzone will continue to be the primary Game Tiles on the Home tab and players will be able to instantly access both Black Ops 6 and Call of Duty: Warzone for a faster, more direct path to gameplay.
The Store tab will now direct all players to the full Black Ops 6 and Call of Duty: Warzone in-game stores based on what you have installed.
A Battle Pass tab will be introduced in Season 01 with similar functionality as the Store tab, directing players to the full Battle Pass within Black Ops 6 or Call of Duty: Warzone.
With the Season 01 update, Call of Duty: Warzone will also have its own individual user interface with improvements similar to the Black Ops 6 UI.
Changes to Features and Settings Management
Players will be able to manage some global settings at the top Call of Duty level of the UI that apply to all games. Settings in this bucket will be automatically imported from your previous title.
Other settings that are more game-specific can be managed at the individual title levels of the UI (e.g. gameplay settings related to new mechanics like Omnimovement). Settings at this level will not be automatically imported from prior games.
Get the Latest on Black Ops 6 and More
*Final UI subject to change, may vary by player.
Stay one step ahead with the latest official Black Ops 6 information by checking the Call of Duty Blog frequently as we approach the October 25 launch date.
Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 is published by Activision. Development for the game is led by Treyarch, in partnership with Raven Software. Additional development support provided (in alphabetical order) by Activision Central Design, Activision Central Technology, Activision QA, Activision Shanghai, Beenox, Demonware, High Moon Studios, Infinity Ward, and Sledgehammer Games.
For more information, please visit www.callofduty.com and www.youtube.com/callofduty, and follow @Activision and @CallofDuty on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook. For Call of Duty Updates, follow @CODUpdates on X (formerly Twitter).
Black Ops 6: Multiplayer modes, maps, and more
Launch Modes for Multiplayer
As you stalk the dark corridors of the Black Ops 6 Lobby, expect a wealth of available Modes for your Quick Play Matches, Moshpits, and other Playlists. Additional Modes will continue to drop during the Preseason and Season 01, in the weeks after the October 25 game launch.
Note: For each Quick Play Match or Playlist, you’re able to quickly press the “Info” button and confirm the Team Size, Maximum Players, Map Size, Available Maps, and Game Modes.
Standard Modes
Team Deathmatch (6v6) Eliminate enemy players to earn scores for your team. Face Off Alternate Mode also supports Team Deathmatch.
Domination (6v6) Capture, hold and defend objectives to earn score for your team. Note that Domination Flags now include a small zone around the flag itself where scoring occurs. Face Off Alternate Mode also supports Domination.
Search and Destroy (6v6) Teams alternate between detonating and defusing a bomb. No respawns. Kill Cam showcases the final kill of the game, rather than the Best Play.
Kill Confirmed (6v6) Recover dog tags to score for your team and deny enemy scores. Face Off Alternate Mode also supports Kill Confirmed.
Free-For-All (8) Eliminate enemies to earn score. The first to reach the score limit will achieve victory.
Hardpoint (6v6) Capture and hold the Hardpoint zone to earn score for your team. Note that consecutive Hardpoints are numbered, allowing you to more easily keep track of how many Hardpoints each map contains, and where they are.
Gunfight (2v2) Eliminate all enemy players using pre-determined classes to win the round. No respawns.
Headquarters (6v6): Compete to capture Headquarters and then defend it. Respawns are disabled for the team that holds the HQ.
Kill Order (6v6) Eliminate the enemy HVT while keeping your HVT alive. HVT kills earn bonus score for your team. Face Off Alternate Mode also supports Kill Order.
Control (6v6) Take turns attacking and defending the zones.
Alternate Modes Face Off Domination (6v6)
Capture, hold and defend objectives to earn score for your team. Scorestreaks disabled. Note that Domination Flags now include a small zone around the flag itself where scoring occurs.
Face Off Team Deathmatch (6v6)
Eliminate enemy players to score for your team. Scorestreaks disabled.
Face Off Kill Order (6v6)
Eliminate the enemy HVT while keeping your HVT alive. HVT kills earn bonus score for your team. Scorestreaks disabled.
Face Off Kill Confirmed (6v6)
Recover dog tags to score for your team and deny enemy score. Scorestreaks disabled.
Hardcore Mode Variant Looking for a challenge where your matches only have a limited HUD, friendly fire is enabled, and your health is lowered significantly? Then prepare for Hardcore, scheduled for launch on certain Playlists.
Hardcore Quick Play game modes will include:
Team Deathmatch
Kill Order
Domination
Hardpoint
Search and Destroy
Kill Confirmed
FFA
Face Off Moshpit
Additional Mode Intel Expect a selection of additional benefits while preparing for matches, as well as the return of the fan favorite HC Mode variant!
Training Course: There’s no better way to get used to all the Omnimovement innovations and combat basics required to be proficient in Black Ops 6 than jumping into the Training Course featured on the Multiplayer map, Protocol. Follow the training missions assigned to you and pay attention to the instructions. Run around the Training Course as often as you wish and practice your favorite maneuvers before facing real players in the Lobby Playlists. The Firing Range Returns: A familiar location to test your equipped Loadout weapons is available, and this comes with a few additions to help you continuously adjust a weapon build until you’re happy with it. Expect to utilize the following:
Practice dummies to shoot at, at 10-, 25-, and 50-meter intervals.
Dummies can have 0, 1, 2, or 3 Armor Plates added to them.
You have limitless ammunition.
The upper-left corner features a target elimination tracker, an accuracy tracker, and a damage tracker.
A toggle feature allows you to optionally activate a Moving Target dummy, or a Recoil metal plate.
Toggle Feature: Moving Target: A dummy drops down from the ceiling on a conveyor belt, and automatically moves back through the range as you connect with it using your weapon. Once you hit it at maximum range, it moves back to its initial position, and the process can be repeated.
Toggle Feature: Recoil Target: A metal plate hangs from the ceiling around seven meters from your booth, allowing you to fire your weapon and view the bullet spread. Theater Mode: Available in Multiplayer for Black Ops 6 at launch and for the first time in the new Call of Duty Engine, Theater Mode lets you capture your recent action-hero moments in all of their glory. Here's what you can expect when playing back a replay file in Theater:
Switch between First-Person, Third-Person, and Fly-Cam perspectives for all players in the match.
Elimination and Deaths are visualized on the timeline. Easily skip to the viewed player’s next Elimination on the timeline.
Fast-Forward, Rewind, and full playback speed control.
Note: All Theater files expire after seven days or when a game update is released.
Private Matches: If you’re wanting to bring friends over for a game on any of the launch Maps and Modes, with comprehensive menus allowing you to adjust every aspect of the Mode’s gameplay, select Private Matches. This is also an excellent method of observing and exploring any maps you need a closer inspection of.
Launch Maps for Multiplayer
Recap: All the Black Ops 6 launch maps are small to medium-sized, with traditional three-lane routes and have been meticulously designed to fully realize the signature Call of Duty®: Black Ops experience. This means offering rapid, energetic combat, along with a variety of scenic set-pieces, cover opportunities, and ranged thoroughfares to ensure your favorite style of play is catered to, from close quarter strikes to long-range sniping, with emphasis always on the action. This culminates into tighter gameplay that’s perfectly suited to Omnimovement.
Maps are split into two main categories: There are 12 brand-new Core 6v6 maps. In addition, there are four brand-new, compact-sized Strike maps designed to be played in either Face Off 6v6 or 2v2 configurations. Below is a showcase of all the maps along with final Tac-Maps.
Core Maps (6v6)
Babylon
(Core 6v6) Battle amongst the ruins of an ancient city, climbing on its crumbled columns and crawling underneath the ancient ruins. There’s plenty of verticality to make use of here, so stay limber as you circle the central altar and seek out the best ground. Back out to the chapel or depot for more concealed views or get heated and rush the middle.
Derelict
(Core 6v6) Deep in the Appalachian Mountains, a train graveyard lies shrouded by a lush forest. Abandoned and forgotten, this derelict depot along the NAR Appalachian Railroad has become a prime ambush point for Rogue Black Ops and Crimson One to face off in a deadly skirmish.
Lowtown
(Core 6v6) Traverse a dockside neighborhood with a boat house, fishing shed, cobbler, and a gallery showcasing classic and contemporary art. Check out the stalls in the market or climb up the latticework for a view from the pizzeria. Swim in the canal — or if desperate, the sewer — to reposition and flank the enemy.
Payback
(Core 6v6) Deep in the Bulgarian mountains, the Rogue Black Ops Safehouse is under attack. Breach this cliffside mansion getaway, explore various oak paneled chambers and the operations room in the main residence. Payback is equipped with various elevations, windows, and many strategic angles throughout the mansion.
Protocol
(Core 6v6) Located off the shore, the Protocol Training Course doubles as a teaching ground and an island citadel fortified for war. The brick buildings include barracks, an armory, and an underground communications monitoring center, and the aged architecture built into this rocky outcrop provides a playground for Rogue Black Ops and Crimson one to go to their own skirmishes with each other.
Red Card
(Core 6v6) Compete from the main entrance of this stadium to the stands of an international soccer pitch. Race through the lobby and view the memorabilia upstairs near the best seats in the house. Outside, explore the promenade and fan festival stands, or swing back into the lobby or parking garage.
Rewind
(Core 6v6) Visit the Liberty Shopping Plaza right on the edge of Liberty Falls, West Virginia and wreak havoc through the strip mall. This 6v6 map has a unique layout, as two outer lanes are connected by multiple routes through and around the shops, a video store in the middle housing several major objectives.
Scud
(Core 6v6) Deploy to a desert military outpost following a devastating attack. The damaged radar dish and nearby buildings have taken several hits, the air thick with smoke from the surrounding fires. Bunker down in the depot or HQ or flank enemies in the trenches. Watch for snipers near the radar dish; its base provides a near 360-degree view.
Skyline
(Core 6v6) Take in breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside from the rooftop of a luxury resort featuring an exquisite penthouse with access to a lounge, kitchen, gym, and pool. Descend into the panic room to cross under the map or fight in the open around the victims of a recent hit job.
Subsonic
(Core 6v6) Fight in and around a small bomber team training facility. While one aircraft sits safely in the central hangar, another lies in flames by the runway next to a crater and an overturned truck. Follow the line of destruction down the perimeter or move inside to avoid threats from overhead.
Vault
(Core 6v6) No expense has been spared on this large, lush desert set within a rugged desert landscape. Monuments, murals, sculptures, and a trophy room adorn the central palace, featuring an opulent atrium and, more importantly, open access to the vault. Combat around this compound is expected to be fierce.
Vorkuta
(Core 6v6) A large storm is inbound and about to hit the Vorkuta mining facility that was once a Soviet labor camp. Both teams visit a place of Mason’s history to battle over key tactical positions. Covered with old machinery and exterior/interior transitions, both teams must stay on their toes if they wish to become victorious.
Strike Maps (2v2/6v6)
Gala
(Strike Map 2v2/6v6) Explore the aftermath of an annual fundraising event in Washington, D.C. Get up on stage or kick back in the lounge. Along the sides, move through a makeshift bar, coatroom, and campaign stand. Every move counts on this tiny map, so get out there and punch the winning ticket.
Pit
(Strike Map 2v2/6v6) Burrow into a small subsection of an underground mining tunnel and collide in the central cave. A ventilation shaft casts some natural light over the cave, the mine tracks within circling back to the narrow tunnels. Climb up the ladders to reach an overhead vantage point or weave between the mine carts for ground floor cover.
Stakeout
(Strike Map 2v2/6v6) A stakeout in the Mediterranean region of Avalon has been compromised as Operators breach the small apartment, battling through the living room, kitchen, bedrooms, and spilling out onto the balcony. Leftover surveillance equipment marks the progress of the conducted intel-gathering, a smashed-out wall giving the former agents easy access to their gear.
Warhead
(Strike Map 2v2/6v6) Welcome to the Nuketown neighborhood! Positioned within bombing distance of one of the facsimile desert test sites, this set of dwellings has been reclaimed by the desert sands. Watch the debris scattered all over the maps, as enemies will use everything from the upturned sign to building wreckage to the bus for tactical cover across this fast-paced map.
FREE OFFICIAL GUIDES: Need exclusive tactical guides to every Black Ops 6 Multiplayer map? We have a guide with an interactive Tac-Map and quick tips so you’re ready to go on October 25. Click here for all the information!
Operators and Factions (MP, RBZ, WZ)
There are over 20 Black Ops 6 Operators to choose from at launch, with 11 allied to the Rogue Black Ops Faction, and 10 allied to Crimson One.
Factions Overview
Operators are chosen from one of two main Factions, with some affiliations to other groups within these conclaves (for example, Grigori Weaver is “Ex-Requiem”). The overarching goals of each faction is as follows:
Rogue Black Ops On the run and hunted by their former employers - the Rogue Black Ops team seek to uncover the truth of the infiltration of the CIA and expose the conspiracy for what it is. All while staying alive and clearing their names.
Without the financial or technological backing of the US, Woods and his squad find themselves having to strike uneasy alliances with the criminal underground, as well as with old enemies, to equip themselves.
As they no longer have state backing, much of their equipment is either improvised, supplied by friends/contacts from other intelligence services, purchased from criminals, or supplied on the promise of future favors owed. They know who’s hunting them and refer to them by the name Crimson One.
Crimson One Crimson One represents the CIA operation initiated to hunt down the Rogue squad. The team is officially sanctioned by the CIA and has access to all intel and tools to get the job done.
It is made up of elite Black Ops soldiers to get the job done and led by the imposing Jackson Caine.
With the CIA infiltrated, Crimson One represents the CIA operation initiated to hunt down and silence Adler, Woods, and their team, permanently.
Operator Overview and Unlocks
Some of the Operators can be chosen immediately, while others are unlocked via an in-game challenge or Vault Edition purchase. Here are all the details.
Rogue Black Ops (11)
ADLER: “Umbra” Skin available via Black Ops 6 Vault Edition purchase.
PARK: “Oblivion” Skin available via Black Ops 6 Vault Edition purchase.
WOODS: “Classic Woods”, “Zombie Woods”, “Numbers Woods” Skins available by pre-purchasing Black Ops 6.
NAZIR: Available immediately.
WESTPOINT: Available immediately.
BAYAN: Available after unlocking Player Level 22.
ALVAREZ: Available after unlocking Player Level 7.
PAYNE: Available after unlocking Player Level 13.
MARSHALL: Available after unlocking Player Level 34.
WEAVER: Available immediately.
MAYA: Available immediately.
Crimson One (10)
BRUTUS: “Warden of Alcatraz” Skin available via Black Ops 6 Vault Edition purchase.
KLAUS: “Reborn” Skin available via Black Ops 6 Vault Edition purchase.
ROSSI: Available after unlocking Player Level 16.
CAINE: Available immediately.
NIRAN: Available immediately.
TORO: Available after unlocking Player Level 10.
BAILEY: Available after unlocking Player Level 28.
STONE: Available after unlocking Player Level 40.
CARVER: Available immediately.
GREY: Available immediately.
Operator Intel: Rogue Black Ops
ADLER
“We’ve got a job to do.”
Citizenship: United States
Faction Affiliation: Rogue Black Ops
Status: Active Background: Infamous and enigmatic, Russell Adler personifies the dark, secretive nature of the CIA. His proclivity to go against protocol has led many to question his loyalty, and he is known in some circles as “America’s Monster,” but none can deny his results.
PARK
“Can’t trust any of us.”
Citizenship: United Kingdom
Faction Affiliation: Rogue Black Ops
Status: Active Background: Helen A. Park, one of MI-6’s best operatives, is an expert in psychological manipulation and asymmetrical warfare. After putting her troubled history behind her, she has risen to new heights in the global intelligence community.
WOODS
“You can’t kill me.”
Citizenship: United States
Faction Affiliation: Rogue Black Ops
Status: Active Background: Sergeant Frank Woods trained as a Marine before becoming a CIA legend. Now deskbound, he leads a new generation of Black Ops warriors in the fight against corruption and injustice – but that doesn’t mean he’s out of the fight. This version of Woods is from a time before current debilitation.
NAZIR
“If there’s a way, I’ll find it.”
Citizenship: Pakistan
Faction Affiliation: Rogue Black Ops
Status: Active Background: Hasib Nazir is the perfect gray man – unassuming, calculating, and dangerous. His background in cryptology and communications gives him a deadly advantage before he ever steps foot on the battlefield.
WESTPOINT
“Feelings don’t matter. Results do.”
Citizenship: United States
Faction Affiliation: Rogue Black Ops
Status: Active Background: Tamira “Westpoint” Chambers was born with military service in her blood and has excelled at every level in her career. An experienced soldier and courageous leader, she serves as a secondary commander on the Rogue Black Ops team.
BAYAN
“Buckle up – I’m driving.”
Citizenship: Poland
Faction Affiliation: Rogue Black Ops
Status: Active Background: Witold Bayan is cool and confident under pressure. A thrill-seeker from an early age, he served in the Polish Forces 1st Mechanized Infantry, but soon found a home in The Guild as a driver and field operative.
ALVAREZ
“Cleared hot and going loud.”
Citizenship: United States
Faction Affiliation: Rogue Black Ops
Status: Active Background: An elite aviator in the CIA’s SAD, Yara Alvarez had humble beginnings watching planes taking off from the goat trails above her hometown in Puerto Rico. She graduated at the top of her class from the United States Air Force Academy. She’s confident, brutally honest and chooses her friends carefully.
PAYNE
“I get eyes on, they’re as good as gone.”
Citizenship: United Kingdom
Faction Affiliation: Rogue Black Ops
Status: Active Background: From the moment he entered the service, Payne dove headfirst into the crucible of combat, becoming one of the most decorated military scout snipers. He often goes into the red zone, but gets the job done.
MARSHALL
“Tell the Pantheon they’re next”
Citizenship: United States
Faction Affiliation: Rogue Black Ops
Status: Active Background: Troy Marshall’s survivor ethos was forged both in conflict and in his commitment to be stronger than his father. A Force Recon Marine turned CIA SAD operator, he is guided by loyalty and belief in the goodness of man at any cost.
WEAVER
“I’ll never trust the system again.”
Citizenship: Russia
Faction Affiliation: Ex-Requiem
Status: Active
Zombies: Dedicated Crew Background: A child of war, Grigori Weaver has experienced every aspect of armed conflict. He’s outlasted most of his peers and has the scars to prove it. He continues to be driven by duty and is committed to righting the wrongs of his past.
MAYA
“Here’s a tip – stay the f**k out of my way.”
Citizenship: Philippines
Faction Affiliation: Rogue Black Ops
Status: Active
Zombies: Dedicated Crew Background: Maya and her brother took their father’s smuggling business to the next level. Relying on her wits and cunning, she must now set her sights on those responsible for the disappearance of her missing sibling.
Operator Intel: Crimson One
BRUTUS
“The guilty must be punished.”
Citizenship: United States
Faction Affiliation: Crimson One
Status: Active Background: A hulking, undead monster, Brutus commands a place of terror on the battlefield. His relentless drive to escape the life sentence set upon him during his time in Alcatraz drives him to wreak havoc and destruction on any enemy unwise enough to get in his way.
KLAUS
“Hello, my name is Klaus.”
Citizenship: Germany
Faction Affiliation: Crimson One
Status: Active Background: A pet project of Dr. Elizabeth Grey, Klaus was deactivated after killing three Operators in Berlin. Klaus’s programmed personality exhibits many traits typical of flesh-and-blood humans, but he appears to lack any understanding of their limits or fragility. Formerly restrained in a Berlin Safe House, he is now free and ready for deployment in any theater of war.
ROSSI
“Secrets are leverage, everyone has them. Just gotta know where to look.”
Citizenship: Italy
Faction Affiliation: Crimson One
Status: Active Background: A street-smart rogue with a blue-blood pedigree, Volta Rossi is an enigma who left the comfort of aristocracy to forge a new name as a HUMINT specialist. Their ties to the Luttazzi family give them unique insight into Avalon.
CAINE
“Nothing matters more than the mission.”
Citizenship: United States
Faction Affiliation: Crimson One
Status: Active Background: Jackson Caine was once a true believer in American exceptionalism. Disillusioned by the old ways espoused by the likes of Woods, Adler, and Hudson, he now leads Crimson One as a perfect instrument of the Pantheon.
NIRAN
“I don’t have time to make mistakes.”
Citizenship: Thailand
Faction Affiliation: Crimson One
Status: Active Background: Rama Niran is known for his “sixth sense” in identifying threats that others miss. An integral part of Crimson One’s defense posture for countering improvised and marine based explosives, he is a solid, reliable presence on the battlefield.
TORO
“Impossible? Doubt it.”
Citizenship: Argentina
Faction Affiliation: Crimson One
Status: Active Background: Alejo “Toro” Carasco, Crimson One’s garrulous young hotshot, has never been one to play by the rules. A sailor in the Argentine Navy turned mercenary, he now works for Caine, the only one able to focus his anger on the enemy.
BAILEY
“Speak it, write it, type it – shit, even think it – I’ll hear it.”
Citizenship: United States
Faction Affiliation: Crimson One
Status: Active Background: A genius in the field of communication technology and surveillance, Tess Bailey exposes enemies’ weaknesses, quickly knocking them on their heels. Her optimistic idealism and trusting nature serve as camouflage to her lethality.
STONE
“The battle goes to the bold.”
Citizenship: United Kingdom
Faction Affiliation: Crimson One
Status: Active Background: An experienced soldier and mercenary, Harry Stone’s skillset is desired by military organizations across the globe. His disregard for ethical rules of engagement makes him an especially dangerous enemy.
CARVER
“As long as I’m standing, this ain’t even close to over.”
Citizenship: United States
Faction Affiliation: Ex-Requiem
Status: Active
Zombies: Dedicated Crew Background: MacKenzie “Mac” Carver’s military career began with distinction, but now his record is marred by tragedy and consequence. Betrayed and imprisoned by those he trusted, he now has purpose – to clear his name and reclaim his former life.
GREY
“I helped create this, and I’ll be the one to stop it.”
Citizenship: United Kingdom
Faction Affiliation: Ex-Requiem
Status: Active
Zombies: Dedicated Crew Background: Dr. Elizabeth Grey was recruited as lead scientist for the CIA’s Requiem Office. Betrayed and imprisoned by her superiors, she must summon her will to survive in order to find justice for what was done to her.
Black Ops 6: Unredacted Launch Comms Incoming!
Expect further critical intel to be unredacted in the coming days as we confirm additional launch content across Multiplayer and Zombies. Look for the following missives:
Launch Comms Blog 1: Multiplayer and More: Essential Intel on the Multiplayer Modes, Maps, Factions, and Operators Coming to Black Ops 6. You’re reading this blog now!
Launch Comms Blog 2: Zombies Mode Prep: Full list of Augments, GobbleGums, and Equipment, as well as a Tour of Terminus and Liberty Falls and some additional updates for Launch.
Launch Comms Blog 3: Weapons Hot: Primary, Secondary, and Melee Weapons Detail for Black Ops 6. Includes new details on the latest innovations across Gunsmith and Attachments.
Launch Comms Blog 4: Gear Up: Ensure you’re fully equipped for Black Ops 6 launch as we confirm all the launch Equipment (Tacticals, Lethals, Field Upgrades), Perks, Combat Specialties, Wildcards, and Scorestreaks available.
Launch Comms Blog 5: Progression: Unlock your true potential as we detail the critical Player Level intel you’ll need on day one, detailed info on Classic Prestige and the available rewards, full info on Calling Cards, Reticles, and Mastery Badges Challenges. Plus: are you ready for a deep dive into the Weapon Camo system?
For more information, please visit www.callofduty.com and www.youtube.com/callofduty, and follow @Activision and @CallofDuty on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook. For Call of Duty Updates, follow @CODUpdates on X (formerly Twitter).
Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 - PC Trailer
PC squads get ready to suit up and boot up 🖥️
💥 4k Graphic and Ultrawide support 💻 Supports AMD FSR 3.1 at launch ⚙️ 500+ customization options on PC 👥 Crossplay with your squad 🛡️ Protected by RICOCHET Anti-Cheat
Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 PC Trailer, Specs, Preloading Info, and more
Call of Duty®: Black Ops 6 is fast approaching its October 25 launch date on Steam. In partnership with Treyarch Studios, Call of Duty PC lead developer Beenox is developing a cutting-edge PC experience with 4K graphics and Ultrawide support plus a huge number of options across a variety of settings so players can dial in the best playing experience possible.
Check out the PC trailer for a look at the highlights coming to Black Ops 6 on PC:
Get the Ultimate Performance Boost with AMD FSR 3.1
Some of the major features include:
AMD FidelityFX Super Resolution
AMD FidelityFX Super Resolution 3 transforms your gaming experience with faster, more responsive framerates in Black Ops 6 using super resolution temporal upscaling and advanced frame generation.
Advanced Frame Generation Technologies
The FSR Frame Generation toggle found in your graphics settings allows you to enable Frame Generation, which significantly increases your framerate and works seamlessly with other upscaling solutions.
AMD FidelityFX Contrast Adaptive Sharpening (CAS)
An overhead sharpening slider can help bring more details to edges of weapons, players, and environments.
AMD FSR 3.1 is compatible with a wide range of graphics cards from AMD and other vendors, delivering exceptional upscaling image quality and massive performance boosts when gaming at 4K or 1440p.
PC Preloading — Official Launch Times
Players who have pre-purchased Black Ops 6 digitally on PC can preload the game before its official October 25 launch date. By preloading, you’ll be ready to jump right into the game the moment it goes live.
Preloading begins for everyone on October 21 at 9AM PT. Download the whole package — Campaign, Multiplayer, and Zombies — so you’re ready to play right at launch.
For Microsoft PC players, the game will roll out regionally on October 24 between 4AM PT and 11PM PT. The official launch time for players on Steam is October 24 at 9PM PT. For exact timing in your region, see the following PC launch map:
Official PC System Requirements
Minimum
OS: Windows 10 64 Bit (latest update)
CPU: AMD Ryzen 5 1400 or Intel Core i5-6600
RAM: 8 GB
Video Card: AMD Radeon RX 470 or NVIDIA GeForce GTX 960 or Intel Arc A580
Video Memory: 2 GB
Storage Space: SSD required with 102 GB available space at launch
Internet: Broadband Internet connection
Recommended
OS: Windows 10 64 Bit (latest update) or Windows 11 64 Bit (latest update)
CPU: AMD Ryzen 5 1600X or Intel Core i7-6700K
RAM: 12 GB
Video Card: AMD Radeon RX 6600XT or NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1080Ti / RTX 3060
Video Memory: 8 GB
Storage Space: SSD required with 102 GB available space at launch
Internet: Broadband Internet connection
Competitive / 4K Ultra Specifications
OS: Windows 10 64 Bit (latest update) or Windows 11 64 Bit (latest update)
CPU: AMD Ryzen 7 2700X or Intel Core i7-8700K
RAM: 16 GB
Video Card: AMD Radeon RX 6800XT or NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 / RTX 4070
Video Memory: 10 GB
Storage Space: SSD required with 102 GB available space at launch
Internet: Broadband Internet connection
Get Game Ready with the Latest Drivers
Get your system game ready for Black Ops 6 by downloading the latest drivers through the AMD Software: Adrenalin Edition™ Application, designed to provide players with a clean, modern and easy-to-use interface where you can quickly access the latest software features, game stats, performance reports, driver updates, and more.
Recommended Drivers
AMD: 24.8.1
NVIDIA: 560.70
INTEL: 32.0.101.5972
Pre-purchase Black Ops 6 on PC Today
Lock in your pre-purchase for Black Ops 6 now so you’re ready to preload the game on October 21 and begin playing when it officially launches on October 25. Upgrade to the Vault Edition to unlock the Hunters vs. Hunted Operator Pack, Mastercraft Collection, one season of BlackCell, and a GobbleGum Pack for Zombies.
Stay Tuned for More
Stay one step ahead with the latest official Black Ops 6 information by checking the Call of Duty Blog frequently as we approach the October 25 launch date.
Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 is published by Activision. Development for the game is led by Treyarch, in partnership with Raven Software and Beenox. Additional development support provided (in alphabetical order) by Activision Central Design, Activision Central Technology, Activision QA, Activision Shanghai, Demonware, High Moon Studios, Infinity Ward, and Sledgehammer Games.
For more information, please visit www.callofduty.com and www.youtube.com/callofduty, and follow @Activision and @CallofDuty on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook. For Call of Duty Updates, follow @CODUpdates on X (formerly Twitter).
Anti-Toxicity Report: Modern Warfare III results and Black Ops 6 launch
The Call of Duty team is dedicated to fostering a positive and welcoming community for all players. Part of these ongoing initiatives involve the development and use of technology to help our teams combat disruptive behavior, in accordance with the Call of Duty Code of Conduct.
In today’s Progress Report, the Disruptive Behavior team shares the latest results and upgrades made to Call of Duty’s anti-toxicity tools, which will reinforce the ongoing work toward deploying our anti-toxicity systems for the launch of Call of Duty®: Black Ops 6.
Voice & Text Moderation in Black Ops 6 on Day One
Voice and text moderation systems designed to combat toxic behavior already deployed in Call of Duty®: Modern Warfare® III will launch with Black Ops 6 on day one on October 25. This includes the global availability (excluding Asia) of Call of Duty’s AI-powered voice moderation system in English, Spanish, and Portuguese. Call of Duty will also expand voice moderation support to French and German for Black Ops 6 at launch.
Text-based moderation of in-game text chat and usernames in twenty languages will be deployed for Black Ops 6 on day one.
The Disruptive Behavior team knows that hype and passion is part of Call of Duty’s DNA. Voice and text-based moderation tools in Call of Duty don’t target our competitive spirit – it enforces against behavior identified in the Call of Duty franchise Code of Conduct, targeting harassment and derogatory language. Similar to Modern Warfare III, the Call of Duty Code of Conduct will be visible during the initial in-game flow when players first launch core multiplayer modes in Black Ops 6, asking players to acknowledge the Code of Conduct pillars.
Over 45 million Text Messages Blocked, Across 20 Languages
Since Modern Warfare (2019), Call of Duty has collaborated with Community Sift to support text-based moderation. In August, our text moderation expanded from 14 to 20 languages.
Call of Duty’s text moderation is available in English, French, Italian, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, Polish, Japanese, Korean, Arabic, Chinese (Traditional and Simplified), Turkish, Dutch, Thai, Vietnamese, Indonesian, Finnish, and Romanian.
Call of Duty has implemented a new analysis system for username reports to enhance efficiency and accuracy, surfacing critical reports to our moderation team for investigation and action.
The Disruptive Behavior team has also been emphasizing proactive measures for text moderation activity, reducing exposure to disruptive behavior for our community. The system also analyzes text chat traffic in near real-time, resulting in the blocking of over 45 million text-based messages in violation of the Call of Duty Code of Conduct since November 2023.
Exposure to Voice Toxicity Dropped 43%; French and German Support Added for Launch
Call of Duty’s proactive voice moderation strategy, powered by ToxMod, has helped reduce exposure to disruptive voice chat for millions of players since its global launch (excluding Asia) last year.
Since rolling out an improved voice chat enforcement in June 2024, Call of Duty has seen a combined 67% reduction in repeat offenders of voice-chat based offenses in Modern Warfare III and Call of Duty: Warzone. In July 2024, 80% of players that were issued a voice chat enforcement since launch did not re-offend. Exposure to disruptive voice chat continues to fall, dropping by 43% since January 2024.
At launch, Black Ops 6 will expand its voice moderation to French and German, in addition to English, Spanish, and Portuguese.
Call of Duty Collaborates to Battle Disruptive Behavior
The Disruptive Behavior team is continually making improvements to reduce our community’s exposure to disruptive behavior as well as enhancing our moderation effectiveness across all types of social interactions in Call of Duty. These improvements include improved messaging to players, Code of Conduct updates, and enhancements to our enforcement strategies.
As part of this work, Call of Duty has been working with the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) since 2022 which has resulted in research paper publication and improvements to our disruptive behavior approach which include reduced time to moderation enforcement as a result of Caltech’s research contribution.
The team has also worked closely with the University of Chicago Booth School of Business and their Product Innovation student cohort. This collaboration began in 2022 and continues to this day, with results of developed research providing our team with insights to better identify and combat disruptive behavior.
Additionally, the team is actively engaged in research surrounding disruptive behavior and prosocial activities in gaming. The knowledge gained from these research initiatives are valuable input to be fed back into the game as part of Call of Duty’s overall strategy to combat disruptive behavior.
For more information, please visit www.callofduty.com and http://www.youtube.com/callofduty, and follow @Activision and @CallofDuty on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook. For Call of Duty Updates, follow @CODUpdates on X (formerly Twitter).
Black Ops 6 Campaign: The Story So Far, part 2
In part 1 of The Story So Far, we covered the Black Ops story starting in the early 1960s through the late 1980s with major story beats and character profiles influenced by the narratives of Call of Duty®: Black Ops, Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War, and Call of Duty: Black Ops II.
It’s now time to set the stage for Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 so you’re ready to dive right into the Campaign when the game launches on Friday, October 25.
Campaign — The Next Chapter of Black Ops
Forced to go rogue. Hunted from within.
Enter a period of transition and upheaval in global politics, characterized by the end of the Cold War and the rise of the United States as a single superpower. The Gulf War dominated headlines and there was growing mistrust in government reflected across the music, television, and pop culture of the time.
While the Gulf War commands the global spotlight, a shadowy clandestine force has infiltrated the highest levels of the CIA, branding anyone who resists as traitors. Exiled from their agency and country that once hailed them as heroes, Black Ops veteran Frank Woods and his team find themselves hunted by the military machine that created them.
Join Woods and his protégé Troy Marshall, both now working for CIA handler Jane Harrow, a fearless and brilliant leader who helps manage their relationships in the agency. However, when an operation goes wrong, Woods and Marshall are suspended and forced to go rogue.
They must build their own team of rogue agents, including Felix Neumann, a technical genius, and Sevati Dumas, a mysterious assassin. The infamous Russell Adler also returns! His allegiances and motivations remain unclear, but the team needs all the help they can get.
In the thrilling action to come, there’s just one rule above every other: Don’t trust anyone.
Bios — Jane Harrow, Troy Marshall, Felix Neumann, Sevati Dumas
Meet the cast of characters most important to the Black Ops 6 Campaign narrative. We covered Frank Woods, Russell Adler, and Helen Park in Part 1. Now we’re highlighting some new faces you’ll encounter in the Black Ops 6 Campaign:
Jane Harrow
An operations specialist in the CIA’s Special Activities Division (SAD), Jane Harrow coordinates mission planning and intelligence gathering alongside multiple paramilitary handlers. Harrow reports directly to SAD Deputy Director Daniel Livingstone.
Troy Marshall
Marshall has been making a name for himself in the field. A protégé of Frank Woods, he is a methodical leader driven by a strong moral compass. With a single-minded focus on overcoming adversity and a stubborn streak that borders on recklessness, it isn’t surprising that Woods and Marshall share common ground. Both men are now working with CIA handler Jane Harrow.
Felix Neumann
Raised in East Berlin after the formation of the GDR, Felix Neumann excelled at sports but showed little interest in them, preferring to read or tinker with appliances and electronic devices. Following compulsory military service, Neumann was recruited and trained by the Stasi.
However, after several years within their ranks Felix began to regret his association with the brutal Stasi. He started selling state secrets to West Germany and its allies to build a nest egg, with a plan to eventually flee East Germany. After successfully escaping to the West, he made a living by providing the criminal underworlds of Europe with his technological expertise and inventions.
Sevati Dumas
Taken in by the Guild, one of the Avalon Crime Factions, at a young age, Sevati Dumas loyally served the crime family as they trained her to become an assassin and espionage expert. Her allegiance changed when she met the love of her life, an idealistic man who helped reveal the ugliness of the criminal underworld.
When Dumas expressed her desire to quit the life of an assassin, the crime family manipulated her into thinking that her partner was an inside agent for a rival crime family. She orchestrated his death, but afterward discovered that the ordeal was a setup to keep her in line.
Sevati disowned her adopted family and became an independent assassin, funneling her resources into waging a personal war against the Avalon Crime Faction. Her exploits eventually caught the eye of CIA operatives in Europe who were eager to use her uncanny ability to track down elusive targets.
Campaign: Your First Steps
Select Single Player from the Black Ops 6 main menu to reach the Campaign screen. Get an overview of the first mission and view completion rewards earned for progressing and follow the prompts when starting the Campaign to choose your difficulty setting.
Choose Your Difficulty
Choose one of four difficulty levels when playing the Campaign. The higher the difficulty, the greater the challenge. You can change the game’s difficulty at any time.
Recruit: For players who are new to Call of Duty.
Regular: Your abilities in combat will be tested.
Hardened: Your skills will be strained.
Veteran: You will not survive.
Gameplay Tips
Consider these tips when getting started with the Campaign to make your journey into the next Black Ops chapter a smooth one:
Know Your Inventory: Check your in-game backpack for supplies throughout the Campaign. Opening the backpack reveals the Equipment Wheel selection screen where various tools and explosives can be equipped, including series favorites like the RC-XD.
Check Your Vitals: Keep your Operator in fighting shape by watching the health and armor meters on your HUD. If your health bar depletes all the way, your Operator goes down for the count. Seek out armor pieces in the environment to bulk up your defenses.
Renovations: Seek out piles of cash while playing the Campaign to invest in your Safehouse, a manor perched atop a granite cliff that used to serve as a KGB Black Site in the 1950s and ‘60s. As the Safehouse evolves, gain additional customization options to fine tune your Operator for the next mission.
Evidence Board: Check the manor’s Evidence Board between missions to access additional intel and mission briefings. This is where the tactical planning occurs. Piece together the puzzles within the storyline between deciding on your best course of action.
Campaign Mission Rewards
Complete missions and upgrade your Black Ops Safehouse to earn rewards for use across Multiplayer and Zombies. In addition to rewards like XP Tokens, here are the in-game items players can unlock for progressing in the Campaign:
Mission Reward
“Slip Sauce” Spray “Forging Fate” Weapon Vinyl “Hook, Line, and Sinker” Finishing Move “Onyx Echo” Blueprint (Sniper Rifle: LR 7.62) “Allied Effort” Weapon Vinyl “Heist” Operator “Tank” Charm “A Good Look at the Devil” Wallpaper “The Cradle” Charm “Case Cracker” Blueprint (Melee Weapon: Knife) “Truth Serum” Blueprint (Assault Rifle: AMES 85) “Pocket Aces” Blueprint (SMG: Jackal PDW) “The Bastion” Blueprint (Shotgun: Marine SP)
Campaign Calling Card Challenges
In addition to Campaign Rewards, expect a series of unique Calling Card Challenges featuring special mission parameters to unlock a variety of stylish Calling Cards upon completion. Some examples are shown above, but the exact criteria for earning all the Campaign Calling Cards, including the Dark Ops Challenges, must remain [[REDACTED]].
Stay Tuned to the Call of Duty Blog
Misinformation is everywhere: Stay one step ahead with the latest official Black Ops 6 information by checking the Call of Duty Blog regularly as we approach launch. These are comms you don’t want to miss.
Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 is published by Activision. Development for the game is led by Treyarch, in partnership with Raven Software. Additional development support provided (in alphabetical order) by Activision Central Design, Activision Central Technology, Activision QA, Activision Shanghai, Beenox, Demonware, High Moon Studios, Infinity Ward, and Sledgehammer Games.
For more information, please visit www.callofduty.com and www.youtube.com/callofduty, and follow @Activision and @CallofDuty on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook. For Call of Duty Updates, follow @CODUpdates on X (formerly Twitter).
