(Image: Advanced Warfare exosuit soldiers in combat. Source: Sledgehammer Games/Activision)
Complete Review: The Future of Military Combat
The Good: Revolutionary Movement & Gameplay
Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare represents a bold leap forward for the franchise, introducing exoskeleton suits that completely transform the traditional Call of Duty gameplay. The enhanced mobility with double-jumps, boost dodges, and mantling abilities created a verticality never before seen in the series.
Kevin Spacey's performance as Jonathan Irons stands as one of the finest in video game history, lending Hollywood-caliber gravitas to the narrative. The campaign delivers spectacular set pieces across global locations, from battle-torn future cities to underwater facilities, showcasing the game's technical prowess.
The Flawed: Familiar Formula Despite Innovations
While the exosuit mechanics revolutionized movement, the core gameplay loop remains familiar to longtime fans. Some players found the multiplayer balance challenging initially as players adapted to the new vertical combat dynamics. The supply drop system, while innovative, drew criticism for its random reward structure.
Verdict: 8.5/10. Advanced Warfare successfully propelled the franchise into the future with groundbreaking movement mechanics and a standout performance by Kevin Spacey, even if it maintained the familiar Call of Duty structure beneath its futuristic exterior.
Hidden Secrets & Easter Eggs
1. Zombies Mode: Complete the campaign to unlock the classic Zombies mode, featuring a unique storyline with John Malkovich, Bill Paxton, Rose McGowan, and Jon Bernthal as playable characters.
2. Atlas Headquarters Easter Eggs: Numerous hidden references and jokes are scattered throughout the Atlas Corporation levels, including developer in-jokes and pop culture references.
3. Secret Gun Customizations: Certain challenges unlock unique weapon variants and camouflages not available through normal progression.
4. Campaign Choices: Some missions feature hidden alternative paths and dialogue options that slightly alter cutscenes and character interactions.
5. Multioperator Callouts: Different character operators have unique dialogue when achieving killstreaks or completing objectives.
Essential Tips for Dominating the Battlefield
1. Master the Exo Movements: Practice boost jumps and dodges in private matches before taking skills online. Vertical movement is key to survival.
2. Utilize Exo Abilities Strategically: Time your cloak, hover, and shield abilities for maximum effectiveness rather than using them randomly.
3. Customize Your Class: The pick-13 system allows deep customization. Balance between primary weapons, scorestreaks, and exo abilities based on your playstyle.
4. Map Awareness: Learn the vertical routes and flanking paths on each map. The traditional three-lane design now includes aerial approaches.
5. Scorestreak Management: Choose scorestreaks that complement your gameplay. Support streaks help the team while assault streaks reward aggressive play.
What was your favorite exo ability? Did you discover all the Zombies mode secrets? Share your Advanced Warfare experiences and strategies in the comments below!
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