Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 has given fans their first real glimpse into gameplay thanks to an unexpected leak that surfaced recently. Instead of a planned reveal, an internal developer message was accidentally sent to all users on the Call of Duty Xbox app, sharing new screenshots and information about multiplayer modes.
The game was officially announced during the 2025 Xbox Games Showcase, accompanied by a cinematic trailer that highlighted a near-future setting and a cast featuring Miles Teller and Kiernan Shipka. However, actual gameplay footage was missing until now.
BREAKING: An internal developer message of the day for BLACK OPS 7 accidentally went live on the Xbox Call of Duty app showing new details
NEW MODE: Overload
NEW MODE: 20v20 pic.twitter.com/qYffUtyaGr— CharlieIntel (@charlieINTEL) June 27, 2025
A developer playtest scheduled for Xbox hardware this weekend was intended to be the source of early gameplay, but an accidental message exposed some of the game’s features prematurely. The leak includes four images: two showcasing new game mode logos and two in-game action shots.
First look at Black Ops 7 multiplayer
One screenshot shows two Operators in futuristic gear—one with a helmet reminiscent of Halo, the other with a weapon-mounted display. This image corresponds to a new mode called Overload. It features two teams of six players each competing to control a neutral EMP device that must be delivered to the enemy HQ to score points.
The other action shot highlights several scorestreaks, including a robotic dog equipped with a turret and rocket launcher, and a large robot vehicle visible in the background, possibly part of the map. An Operator is seen diving sideways, continuing the use of Omnimovement. Another opponent appears to have a jetpack-like device, suggesting movement mechanics might be slightly more current than those in Black Ops 6, though nothing like the high mobility from current Warfare.
Also, the leak reveals a Skirmish mode, described as a 20v20 large-map battle. Teams aim to complete objectives such as capturing points, destroying payloads, and transmitting data. Wingsuits will be usable in multiplayer, allowing players to flank and reach objectives faster. How extensively wingsuits will be featured is still unclear.
Skirmish 20v20 new mode in Black Ops 7 on a "large map."
"Use your wingsuit to flank and reach objectives before your enemy. The first team to reach the score limit wins!" pic.twitter.com/Mxa1hHZRXT
— CharlieIntel (@charlieINTEL) June 27, 2025
With internal playtests gaining momentum, a public Beta might soon follow, giving players a chance to experience these new modes firsthand. It’s kinda interesting to see what the near-future setting will bring in terms of gameplay variety and tech.
What do you think about these new modes and the futuristic gear? Are you curious about trying Overload or the massive 20v20 Skirmish? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below!
