Call of Duty®: Black Ops
" Classic first-person action with gripping Cold War campaign but outdated multiplayer and bugs "
Call of Duty®: Black Ops Review
Call of Duty®: Black Ops remains a beloved classic nearly 15 years after its release, praised especially for its gripping Cold War-era campaign, engaging zombies mode, and solid multiplayer experience. Players appreciate its strong narrative, memorable characters, and atmospheric missions, with many calling it one of the best in the franchise. The voice acting and soundtrack receive consistent commendation for enhancing immersion.
However, the game shows its age with dated gameplay mechanics and some technical issues, including poor PC port compatibility and bugs like broken achievements. A major point of contention is the high price for an older title, which many players find unjustified, urging potential buyers to wait for sales. Despite these drawbacks, the nostalgic value and quality content keep fans returning, making it a worthwhile experience, especially at a discounted price.
Highlights
The campaign is widely celebrated for its deep, mysterious storyline and well-developed characters, delivering a tense Cold War atmosphere. The zombies mode is highly addictive, offering hours of cooperative fun and challenging Easter eggs.
Gunplay remains satisfying and precise, with a variety of weapons and mission types keeping gameplay fresh. The game's audio design and music effectively complement the intense mood, contributing to its lasting appeal.
Criticisms
Players frequently criticize the game's steep price, considering it excessive for a 15-year-old title. Technical issues such as poor PC compatibility, bugs, and broken achievements diminish the experience.
Some find the enemy AI frustratingly omniscient, reducing tactical options. Additionally, the gameplay feels dated compared to modern shooters, and multiplayer suffers from a dwindling player base and security problems. The campaign's ending also feels somewhat disconnected to some players.
Pros
- • The Cold War campaign offers a gripping and memorable storyline with strong character development.
- • Zombies mode provides addictive, cooperative gameplay with challenging objectives and Easter eggs.
- • Gunplay is satisfying, with a good variety of weapons and mission types.
- • Excellent voice acting and atmospheric soundtrack enhance immersion.
- • Nostalgia factor is high, appealing to long-time fans of the series.
- • Supports controller input, improving accessibility on PC.
- • Multiplayer was once highly enjoyable with engaging maps and modes.
Cons
- • Price is considered exorbitant for a 15-year-old game, deterring potential buyers.
- • PC port has compatibility issues and bugs, including broken achievements.
- • Enemy AI can be frustratingly aware, limiting stealth and strategy options.
- • Multiplayer player base is small and plagued by hackers.
- • Gameplay mechanics feel outdated compared to modern shooters.
- • Some campaign endings feel detached and unrealistic.
- • Lack of modern features like better controller support and UI polish.
Rating Criteria
The biggest first-person action series of all time and the follow-up to critically acclaimed Call of Duty®: Modern Warfare 2 returns with Call of Duty®: Black Ops.
