The anticipation is palpable as Las Vegas prepares to host Activision’s Call of Duty: Next event. Tonight, the stage is set for a major reveal of ‘Black Ops 7,’ the latest installment in the iconic franchise. This annual event promises a deep dive into the game’s multiplayer and Zombies modes, offering both a livestream presentation and hands-on experiences for press and influencers. As ‘Call of Duty’ continues to evolve, Next 2025 aims to deliver an immersive experience that blends the virtual and real worlds.
This article explores the key features of Call of Duty: Next 2025, including the unveiling of ‘Black Ops 7’ gameplay, the integration of real-world elements like the Zombies Wonder Vehicle, and insights from Activision’s marketing chief. Discover what makes this year’s event a significant step forward in engaging the ‘Call of Duty’ community and setting the stage for the future of the franchise.
Call of Duty: Next 2025 Overview
Call of Duty: Next is an annual event where Activision showcases upcoming ‘Call of Duty’ games. This year, the event is being held in Las Vegas at Area 15, a futuristic and immersive venue. The event features hands-on gameplay of the new ‘Call of Duty: Black Ops 7,’ including its Multiplayer and Zombies modes, as well as the new free-to-play ‘Call of Duty: Warzone Resurgence’ experience, ‘Haven’s Hollow.’
Activision’s marketing chief, Tyler Bahl, emphasized the importance of community engagement:
Call of Duty: Next is all about showcasing and celebrating games with our passionate community, and this year we really wanted to go bigger.
The event also includes the World Series of Warzone (WSOW) with a $1M prize pool and the return of the Call of Duty Endowment (C.O.D.E.) Bowl VI presented by USAA.
Wonder Vehicle Activation
One of the standout features of this year’s event is the real-life version of the in-game ‘Wonder Vehicle’ truck from the ‘Black Ops 7’ Zombies mode, created in partnership with West Coast Customs. The Wonder Vehicle allows players to upgrade it and traverse the Ashes of the Damned map, running over and escaping hordes of Zombies.
Activision describes the in-game functionality:
In the new ‘Call of Duty: Black Ops 7’ Zombies mode, players will be able to work together to upgrade the Wonder Vehicle and traverse the Ashes of the Damned map, running over and escaping hordes of Zombies.
The physical version of the Wonder Vehicle features triple abomination heads on the hood, a turret on top, and a ‘Pack-A-Punch’ machine in the back, bringing the game to life.
Black Ops 7 Game Details
‘Call of Duty: Black Ops 7’ introduces several new elements, including the Zombies mode with the Wonder Vehicle and the ‘Ashes of the Damned’ map. The game aims to provide an immersive and engaging experience for players, building on the legacy of the Black Ops series.
Tyler Bahl commented on the momentum of developing two ‘Black Ops’ games back-to-back:
Moving directly into ‘Call of Duty: Black Ops 7’ gave us a chance to think differently about momentum. We knew the audience had high expectations, so the focus was on making Next feel fresh, unexpected, and larger in scale.
This approach led to a more immersive venue space with the latest technology and expanded community elements.
Activision Marketing Strategy
Activision’s marketing strategy for Call of Duty: Next 2025 focuses on creating an immersive experience that extends beyond the game itself. By hosting the event in Las Vegas and incorporating real-world elements, Activision aims to engage both the media and the broader community.
Bahl explained the intent behind this strategy:
This year we wanted to do more than just share new content. We aimed to make Next the most immersive experience yet to showcase not only ‘Black Ops 7,’ but across the board with ‘Call of Duty: Warzone,’ ‘Call of Duty: Mobile,’ C.O.D.E. Bowl VI and the World Series of Warzone.
The goal is to create a holistic experience that resonates with fans and provides them with unique opportunities to connect with the ‘Call of Duty’ universe.
Influencer and Press Engagement
A key component of Call of Duty: Next is the engagement of influencers and press, who provide first-hand accounts and insights to millions of fans worldwide. These attendees get hands-on experience with the new game, see builds like the Wonder Vehicle, and interact with the developers.
Bahl highlighted the importance of this engagement:
They get the first hands-on with the new game, they see the builds from the game like the Wunder Vehicle and T.E.D.D., and they spend time with our talented group of “Call of Duty” developers. Then they stream and share that access and perspective with millions of fans who couldn’t be there in person.
This approach ensures that the excitement and depth of Next are effectively communicated to the broader community.
Cast Integration
While the star-studded cast of ‘Black Ops 7’ isn’t the primary focus of Next, Activision has found ways to integrate them into the experience through behind-the-scenes content that sets up the gameplay reveals.
Bahl noted the cast’s importance:
The cast is a huge part of ‘Call of Duty: Black Ops 7’s’ identity, and while they won’t be front and center at NEXT, we’ve still found ways to weave them into the experience.
The cast plays a crucial role in bringing the narrative of the new ‘Call of Duty’ game to life and shaping how fans connect with the world of ‘Black Ops.’
Conclusion
Call of Duty: Next 2025 promises to be a landmark event, showcasing ‘Black Ops 7’ and providing an immersive experience for fans and the gaming community. By integrating real-world elements, engaging influencers and press, and building on the momentum of the Black Ops series, Activision is setting the stage for a successful launch.
The event’s focus on community engagement and innovative marketing strategies highlights the evolving landscape of the gaming industry. As ‘Call of Duty’ continues to adapt and expand, events like Next 2025 will play a crucial role in shaping its future and maintaining its position as a leading franchise.
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