Activision has announced that Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 will require an active internet connection for every game mode, even the single-player campaign. Today’s announcement detailing this arrived through the official website, revealing further information about the different editions and new features.
Activision explained that the requirement is due to the game’s use of texture streaming, which delivers top-notch visuals while conserving hard drive space. “To deliver the highest-quality visuals while also reducing the game’s overall storage space on your hard drive, Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 will use texture streaming across all game modes. This means you’ll need a continuous internet connection to play any game mode, including Campaign. If you’re on a console, Campaign can be played without a premium subscription service such as Game Pass Core or PlayStation Plus.” the company stated in an FAQ.
Personally, I find this shift quite significant. It feels like a nod towards an increasingly connected gaming experience, but I can’t help but wonder about the potential drawbacks. What if you’re in an area with spotty internet? Will this limit the accessibility for players who don’t have a reliable connection?
On the upside, the FAQ also revealed that split-screen multiplayer will return for the PS5 and Xbox Series X/S versions of the game. Sadly, due to performance limitations, PS4 and Xbox One players won’t get this feature. It’s a bit of a letdown for those still on last-gen consoles, but it’s clear that the focus is on optimizing the experience for newer hardware.
The hype for Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 is building, especially after the recent trailer drop at the Xbox Games Showcase. The campaign, set against the backdrop of the Gulf War, looks intense and promises a deep dive into that era. The trailer showcased some gripping gameplay and confirmed the game’s release date: October 25. Please mark your calendars because it’s set to hit PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S. And for those subscribed to Game Pass, the good news is it’ll be available there, too.