PGC NEWS

The annual tradition continues: Activision has unleashed another installment in its blockbuster shooter franchise, Call of Duty. However, with the series’ recent quality dips, culminating in the underwhelming Call of Duty: Ghosts on PC, even the most loyal fans have grown wary. This year, Treyarch takes a backseat, handing the reins to Sledgehammer Games, a studio composed of Visceral Games veterans, known for their work on the Dead Space series. Sledgehammer promises a fresh perspective with Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare, a futuristic foray into conflict between private military corporations, under the tagline “Power Changes Everything.” Does this new direction revitalize the aging, and sometimes controversial, franchise? Let’s dive in.

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A Glimpse into Future Warfare

Set in 2054, Advanced Warfare paints a world embroiled in conflict between the US and an East Asian nation. Sergeant Jack Mitchell, alongside Will Irons and Cormack, participates in an assault on Seoul. Tragedy strikes when Will is killed in an explosion, leaving Mitchell with a lost arm. Discharged, Mitchell is offered a position at ATLAS, the world’s most powerful private military corporation, run by Will’s father, Jonathan Irons. In return, Mitchell receives a technologically advanced prosthetic arm. Tasked with combating the KVA, a self-proclaimed terrorist group, Mitchell is thrust back into a new kind of war, one where the lines between power and justice blur.

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The EXO Suit takes center stage, transforming Advanced Warfare’s gameplay. No longer confined to traditional run-and-gun mechanics, the EXO Suit injects a faster, more dynamic pace into movement and combat. Sledgehammer Games has also crafted a compelling narrative, punctuated by thrilling set pieces and well-paced downtime. While the plot is somewhat predictable, it delivers a solid foundation for the action.

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The game showcases Sledgehammer’s vision of future military technology. From sleek, angular weaponry and Exoskeletons to the Razorback VTOL and Hoverbike, Advanced Warfare embraces its futuristic setting. The introduction of Directed Energy Weapons (DEWs) further enhances the futuristic arsenal. While imaginative, the weaponry remains grounded in reality, drawing inspiration from existing firearms and adapting them to the game’s timeline.

Star-Studded Performance and Visuals

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A captivating story and exciting gameplay are elevated by stellar performances. Featuring Kevin Spacey, Troy Baker, and Brian Bloom, Advanced Warfare delivers a truly cinematic experience. Spacey, known for his chilling portrayal of Frank Underwood in House of Cards, brings the same calculated menace to Jonathan Irons. The voice acting is impeccable, enhancing the game’s cinematic feel.

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Visually, Advanced Warfare represents a significant leap forward for the series, often criticized for its stagnant graphics. Sledgehammer Games has developed a new engine, pushing the boundaries of visual fidelity. From the war-torn streets of Seoul to the desolate ruins of Detroit, the environments are stunning and effectively convey the devastation of future warfare. The use of motion capture technology for cutscenes adds a layer of realism, making characters feel lifelike and immersive.

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Linearity and Audio Disappointments

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Despite its compelling narrative, Advanced Warfare falls prey to a familiar Call of Duty pitfall: linearity. While the EXO Suit introduces new gameplay mechanics, the campaign remains largely on rails. Players are guided through scripted sequences, limiting their freedom and strategic options. The introduction of the Grappling Hook offers a brief respite, but the game quickly reverts to its linear structure.

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The audio design is another significant drawback. While the voice acting shines, the sound effects are lackluster and generic. Weapon sounds, in particular, lack impact and variety. Regardless of environment, from confined spaces to open areas, gunfire feels flat and repetitive. This issue, prevalent in recent Call of Duty titles, detracts from the immersive experience.

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The soundtrack, composed by Harry Gregson instead of series regulars Hans Zimmer or Trent Reznor, also falls short. The music lacks the punch and emotional resonance expected from a Call of Duty title, failing to elevate the intense action sequences.

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Conclusion

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Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare makes strides in visuals and storytelling, embracing its futuristic setting with innovative gameplay mechanics. However, its linear campaign and disappointing audio design hold it back from truly realizing its potential. While a step in the right direction, Advanced Warfare ultimately feels like a missed opportunity to revolutionize the franchise.