Activision has unveiled a strategic shift for the Call of Duty franchise, announcing that future releases will no longer adhere to a consecutive pattern of launching Modern Warfare or Black Ops titles. This move marks a departure from the recent trend, where the last four titles included Modern Warfare II in 2022, followed by Modern Warfare III in 2023, Black Ops 6 in 2024, and the latest, Black Ops 7 in 2025. According to a blog post, Activision aims to deliver “an absolutely unique experience each and every year.”

The release of Black Ops 7 in November received mixed reactions, particularly struggling in the European market, as reported by The Game Business. Prior to its launch, concerns were voiced by Treyarch’s Senior Director of Production, Yale Miller, who expressed apprehension to CharlieIntel that the similarities between Black Ops 6 and Black Ops 7 might not sit well with players.

Activision has committed to fostering substantial innovation in upcoming titles. “We will drive innovation that is meaningful, not incremental,” the company stated, indicating a move towards more significant changes. While the specifics of these plans remain under wraps, Activision assures fans that the franchise’s future is promising, bolstered by the depth and talent of its development teams. The company also hinted at a “next era” for Call of Duty that will not only meet player expectations but also introduce surprises that will advance both the franchise and the genre.