Activision’s Major Announcement
Activision has confirmed significant changes regarding the Carry Forward program for Call of Duty: Black Ops 7. The company announced that content from Black Ops 6, including Operators, Operator Skins, and Weapons, will not transfer to the upcoming installment.
“Operators, Operator Skins, and Weapons from Black Ops 6 will no longer carry forward into Black Ops 7,” Activision stated. The developer emphasized that the new game should feel authentic to the Call of Duty franchise and its setting, which influenced this decision.
Importantly, this decision is specific to Black Ops 7. Players will continue to have access to their Black Ops 6 content in Call of Duty: Warzone. Activision also assured fans that double XP tokens and GobbleGums would carry forward, acknowledging that player time and progression are crucial.
Shift from Previous Statements
Just a week prior, Activision had indicated that the Carry Forward program would return for Black Ops 7, with some exceptions, but the latest announcement contradicts that statement entirely.
Concerns About Franchise Identity
In its latest communication, Activision also addressed ongoing discussions regarding the identity of Call of Duty, recognizing that some players feel the franchise has shifted away from its core elements. “That feedback hits home, and we take it seriously. We hear you,” the company remarked, although it did not elaborate on how it plans to tackle these concerns.
The commentary seems to reflect the mixed responses to the increasingly quirky skins featured in recent Call of Duty games. While some players appreciate these design choices, others argue that they detract from the game’s overall feel.
Reactions Amidst Battlefield 6 Release
This announcement comes as Battlefield 6 prepares for release in October. Battlefield Studios has expressed a desire for its game’s multiplayer skins to remain “grounded.” Design Director Shashank Uchil stated, “It has to be grounded. That is what BF3 and BF4 was–it was all soldiers, on the ground. It’s going to be like this,” highlighting a focus on realism.
Uchil added a notable remark, saying, “I don’t think it needs Nicki Minaj,” referencing a controversial DLC skin from Call of Duty. He further emphasized Battlefield 6’s approach: “Let’s keep it real, keep it grounded.”
In an interview with ComicBook, Producer Alexia Christofi reiterated the goal of authenticity, saying that while players should enjoy creative expression through skins, the designs must remain true to the franchise’s roots.
Upcoming Release
Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 is set to launch on November 14 for PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC. The new game promises exciting features, including an expansive campaign endgame, a large round-based Zombies map, and a futuristic aesthetic for multiplayer experiences.
