The annual Call of Duty release has become as predictable as the changing seasons, but this year's entry faces stiffer competition than usual. Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 arrives just weeks after Battlefield 6's impressive launch, creating a genuine battle for military shooter supremacy that hasn't been seen in years.
A Formula Growing Stale
Unfortunately for franchise fans, Black Ops 7 represents the series' weakest offering in nearly a decade, perhaps since Black Ops 4 back in 2014. The multiplayer component feels particularly familiar - if you've played any of the recent Black Ops titles, you'll struggle to identify meaningful improvements or innovations this time around.
The game fails to distinguish itself where it matters most, while the areas where it does attempt to stand out ultimately work against it. The near-future storyline takes bizarre turns involving mind-control pharmaceuticals and strange creatures that consistently miss their mark.
Forced Co-op and Lost Charm
Most frustratingly, the single-player campaign doesn't truly function as a solo experience. While you can technically play alone, the game forces cooperative play with three other online soldiers, whether you want company or not. Your character becomes merely one of four protagonists, diminishing the personal connection that made previous campaigns memorable.
This approach completely lacks the charm of Black Ops 6's narrative, which featured quiet, atmospheric interludes in a cosy safehouse between missions. The forced social aspect feels more like an obligation than an enhancement to the experience.
A Bright Spot in Racing Alternatives
In happier gaming news, Kirby Air Rides for Nintendo Switch provides a refreshing alternative to the kart racing genre dominated by Mario and Sonic. This sequel to a twenty-year-old classic brings genuinely innovative mechanics that require players to completely rethink their racing instincts.
The game maintains forward momentum automatically, requiring players to press a button that initially slows them down to build up power for speed boosts. Combined with an emphasis on gliding mechanics, unique character abilities, and diverse vehicles, it creates a learning curve that proves rewarding once mastered.
The standout City Trial mode sees players competing to build the ultimate machine before tackling various micro-objectives, creating an addictive and distinctive experience that stands apart from other racing titles. While it won't dethrone Mario Kart, it offers a compelling alternative for those seeking something different in the genre.
Both titles demonstrate that while established franchises can sometimes disappoint by playing it too safe or making questionable changes, there's always room for fresh approaches that challenge conventions and deliver unexpected pleasure.
