Players will experience what made Task Force 141 become the iconic and legendary squad that it is, featuring familiar heroes and new allies who will be challenged to work together in missions across Europe, Asia and the Americas. The Campaign is set to be an incredible experience, featuring offshore sieges with underwater combat, all-out explosive assaults from 30,000 feet above enemy strongholds, and high-stakes, low-profile stealth missions. Players can also join up with their duo for evolved Special Ops, a tactical co-op mode that will advance team-building skills, and also sets the scene for the near-endless hours of gameplay available in the world-class Multiplayer.

In Call Of Duty: Modern Warfare II’s multiplayer, players will be able to try out and level up the multiple base weapons, explore a wide range of maps and modes, meet an international cast of Operators and more. Modern Warfare II will also have an incredible post-release calendar, set to include a massive amount of free post-launch content drops featuring new maps, modes, and blockbuster special events that can’t be missed.

Soon after the launch of Modern Warfare II, Warzone 2.0 will launch as an extension of the Modern Warfare II universe. With it comes new technology, new features, and new gameplay that work seamlessly together. Throughout, the team has taken a wide range of community feedback to heart with both experiences. In order to fully deliver this state-of-the-art Warzone experience, Warzone 2.0 will feature new Modern Warfare II content and systems with brand-new progression and inventories. To add, today’s Warzone will continue as a separate experience that will include a continuation of player progression and inventories within that Warzone experience.

Expect a massive calendar of free content post-launch featuring evolving gameplay with new maps, modes, seasonal events, community celebrations and more.

In addition, for the first time in Call Of Duty history, the team is using one unified engine across the franchise. Starting with Modern Warfare II, the new title features the new, next-generation engine first debuted with Modern Warfare (2019).  Modern Warfare II will be the most advanced Call of Duty in history, with a truly immersive experience with stunningly realistic sound, lighting, and graphics. New technology, including new toolchains, AI and locomotion models are refined. Modern Warfare ll features a physically based material system allowing for state-of-the-art photogrammetry, a new hybrid tile based streaming system, new PBR water and underwater decal rendering system, world volumetric lighting, 4K HDR, and more as well as a new GPU geometry pipeline. All of this is in service of a massive cinematic campaign.

Call of Duty fans can get excited, because new content is headed their way, including a new Warzone map, seven new Modern Warfare II Multiplayer maps, four new armaments, a new amphibious vehicle and an infamous masked face when Season 04 kicks off for Modern Warfare II and Warzone on June 14.

Developed by Beenox, Vondel, the new medium-sized Warzone map, features 15 distinct points of interest, including a medieval castle, an abandoned zoo, city hall, a soccer stadium set up for an epic paintball tournament, town houses, cafes, and more.

Check out all the exciting new content coming in Season 04!

Warzone: 

• Welcome to Vondel. This medium-sized map is ready to host Resurgence, DMZ, and the Lockdown LTM at launch, with standard Battle Royale in-Season.
• Over a Half Dozen New Features. Tactical Amphibious Vehicle (TAV) for Vondel, the return of Favorite Supply Boxes, a new Field Upgrade, and more.
• The Sandstorm Continues in Al Mazrah. In addition to Vondel’s introduction, Al Mazrah sees some slight topographical changes during Season 04.
• A New, Full Ranked Season Arrives in Season 04. Ready yourself for a full Ranked Season with more rewards to claim. 
• More at Mid-Season, Including Traditional Battle Royale in Vondel, New Vondel Gulag. The action will only get hotter as we look towards a summer Mid-Season Update.

 Modern Warfare II:

• A Six-Pack of New Multiplayer Maps at Launch. Showdown. Kunstenaar (pronounced “khun-steh-nawr”) District. Mercado. Penthouse. Mawizeh Marsh. Ahkdar Village. Plus one more Core MP map planned for mid-season.
• Search & Destroy, Prisoner Rescue to Expand to 12v12 for a Limited Time. Expect the Playlist rotation to include these intense modes with double the number of players on each team.
• A New Ranked Season. Rise and grind; shoot for a new top Division and unlock those cool Ranked Rewards as you prepare for the exciting conclusion to the Call of Duty League season.

Across both titles:

• The Assault on Vondel Begins at Launch. Complete challenges to unlock new items not just for yourself, but also for the entire community, including a new melee weapon: the Tonfa.
• New Weapons. In addition to the Tonfa, ready yourself with the Tempus Razorback Assault Rifle and ISO 45 SMG, both available for free in the Battlepass.
• New Operators, Including Nikto. The masked ex-cover agent returns with a vengeance. Other Operators include a total badass working for SpecGru and .
• Prestige Levels Continue, New Challenges Available. Reach Level 850 to unlock a special Weapon Blueprint.

Modern Warfare® II Continues on a Global Scale

Al Mazrah, Urzikstan, Ashika Island, Las Almas . . . and now, Vondel.

The waterfront district of a Baroque European city where centuries of old-world history blends with modern architectural developments, Vondel saw a complete evacuation due to an imminent attack threat, right as Operators descended into the darkness of the Al Mazrah Koschei Complex during a fierce sandstorm at the culmination of Season 03.

While Vondel is a brand-new locale for Operators to explore, the ensuing chaos is part of a plan activated by a familiar and infamous masked figure, whose forces are operating in both Al Mazrah and Vondel. Peer through the dust clouds, and you’ll recognize the apparent leader of these unknown forces:

His name is Nikto. And he’s ready to Run This Town.

This is Season 04 of Call of Duty®: Modern Warfare® II and Call of Duty®: Warzone™, launching on June 14 at 9AM PT across all platforms.

Expect Patch Notes led by Infinity Ward and Raven Software to be released prior to the release of Season 04. Additional development support is provided by (in alphabetical order) Activision Central Design, Activision Localization Dublin, Activision QA, Activision Shanghai, Beenox, Demonware, High Moon Studios, Raven Software, Sledgehammer Games, Team Ricochet, Toys for Bob, and Treyarch.

WARZONE OVERVIEW

• Welcome to Vondel. This medium-sized map is ready to host Resurgence, DMZ, and the Lockdown LTM at launch, with standard Battle Royale in-Season.
• Over a Half Dozen New Features. Tactical Amphibious Vehicle (TAV), the return of Favorite Supply Boxes, dynamic fog, a new Field Upgrade, and more.
• The Sandstorm Continues in Al Mazrah. In addition to Vondel’s introduction, Al Mazrah sees some slight topographical changes during Season 04.
• Warzone Ranked Play Resets, First Full Series in Season 04. Ready yourself for a full Ranked Season with more rewards to claim. Read more about Warzone Ranked in the General Overview part of this blog.
• More at Mid-Season, Including Traditional Battle Royale in Vondel, New Vondel Gulag. The action will only get hotter as we look towards a summer Mid-Season Update.

 New Map: Vondel

Set your coordinates for an all-new map and Exclusion Zone.

Size-wise, Vondel’s geographical footprint is between Al Mazrah and Ashika Island, welcoming up to 18 Operators for DMZ and 72 Operators for Resurgence game modes. Expect a mixture of densely-packed urban streets and canals, larger structures to fully explore (inside and out), a large degree of verticality and the means to counter those that take advantage of it, including parkour routes and numerous secrets to discover.

Developed by Beenox, Vondel features 15 distinct points of interest, including a medieval Castle dating back to Saxon times, an abandoned Zoo, a Greek Revival–styled City Hall, and a soccer Stadium currently set up for an epic paintball tournament final. There are also densely packed town houses, small alleyway cafés, and a variety of other locales to explore and take tactical advantage of.

However, Vondel’s unique topography and access points are focused around its intricate canal system. In addition to several different road types and bridges, Operators can dive (or even drive) into the water surrounding Vondel’s islands and city streets, or use watercraft and a new amphibious vehicle to get around this tight cityscape.

With all that said, we received a special tactical overview pre-brief from SpecGru that details Vondel’s multiple points of interest. Expect declassification and release on June 8.

Launch Modes: New Lockdown LTM, Resurgence, Updates

New Limited Time Mode: Lockdown (Launch Window: June 28)

Vondel is under Lockdown.

A brand-new mode in Call of Duty: Warzone — inspired by the Multiplayer mode Hardpoint — Lockdown will task multiple Quads at capturing and holding zones around the map rather than being the last squad standing.

Perfect for those who enjoy objective-based modes and who spend plenty of time in both Multiplayer and Battle Royale, Lockdown allows for Custom Loadouts right at the start of the match. This means a squad could go for the Call of Duty League™ bread-and-butter of up to three Vaznev 9Ks or TAC-56s, and a Sniper Rifle user on the side . . . or you can find your new favorite loadout combination when trying to master rotations and defensive setups to crush the opposition.

Expect Lockdown to roughly last about double the time of a traditional Hardpoint match. You can theoretically fit four matches back-to-back within an hour, and still have time to grab some water or a hand warmer.

Lockdown is a limited-time mode for players to try out at Season 04 launch, as it will be a part of the launch playlist rotation for Warzone.

Resurgence (Launch)

Would you rather drop into Vondel for some familiar fighting? Then prepare for a Resurgence.

The core Resurgence rules and flow from Ashika Island will carry over to Vondel, and two new features are being added to improve match quality and pace of play: Dynamic Resurgence Timers and the Vengeance Icon.

Dynamic Resurgence Timers

Resurgence modes are set to receive a new Dynamic Timer feature. As part of a general plan with aspirations for all online modes, Call of Duty developers are introducing a new feature — Dynamic Resurgence Timers. This automatically adjusts a squad’s timers should one or multiple squad members disconnect.

Should those squad members rejoin, the Resurgence timers revert back to their “normal” countdowns.

However, in general, dynamic Resurgence timers should be an equalizer for squads that suddenly find themselves short an Operator.

Vengeance Icon

When you’ve just been dropped during a Warzone match, it may be time to reevaluate your tactical mettle. Don’t get tilted, get even; in other words, wouldn’t you want to know where the Operator behind your squadmate’s killcam moved to after they eliminated them in a Resurgence match?

The Vengeance Icon allows you to find out who that is.

In Season 04, all Resurgence matches will include this new core mechanic: an icon that is in the direction of the opponent that eliminated your squadmate. This icon merely shows direction, not exact location, and is tied to the death of your squadmate.

The Vengeance Icon lasts as long as the Resurgence Timer is on for your squadmate; if your squadmate is down for 15 seconds, the icon only lasts for 15 seconds. If you eliminate this rival, an additional five seconds is shaved off all squadmate Resurgence countdowns in addition to the normal elimination value.

Perfect for squadmates who don’t use microphones, the Vengeance Icon provides support for squad-based Resurgence game modes. However, the intel is only as good as your skills: the icon will be helpful in tracking down the enemy, but it’s up to you to finish the job.

Both Dynamic Resurgence Timers and Vengeance Icons are planned to be included in Resurgence playlists regardless of map.

DMZ Updates, Including Dynamic Fog

DMZ Operators: Welcome to Vondel.

From the Cruise Terminal to the Central Station, expect to fully explore the cobblestone streets, numerous waterways, market squares, waterfront townhomes, and other main points of interest across Vondel as part of your ongoing DMZ missions. Up to 18 Operators – six squads of three – can deploy to Vondel at any given time.

This new Exclusion Zone comes to Season 04 alongside an exciting major update for DMZ, featuring the following additional DMZ content:

Forward Operating Base: A Central Hub for DMZ

A more centralized hub for all communications and Operator upgrades within DMZ is coming to Season 04. Known as the Forward Operating Base (FOB), this menu system allows Operators to complete objectives to earn a variety of upgrades to use across DMZ. These upgrades come in four different categories:

• Stash: Wallet and Key Stash size increases.
• Weapons Locker: Insured and contraband armaments and upgrades.
• Bounty Board: For Exfil, Bartering recipes, and Buy Station discounts.
• Communications Station: Allowing Urgent Mission access.

All Operator Upgrades within the Forward Operating Base are passive, don’t need to be equipped, and allow for efficient progress across all aspects of DMZ.

Urgent Missions, Reputation with Factions, Wallet

Within the FOB you can unlock Urgent Missions. These are a new type of Faction-requested tasks. They are usually quicker to complete, and provide an excellent way to earn Faction Reputation, unlock more Story Missions, thus giving Faction Missions even more agency.

Specifically, Urgent Mission completion grants a tracked Reputation with individual Factions, all shown in the Forward Operating Base along with your objectives that allow you to unlock insured slots, the out-of-game Wallet, as well as expanding DMZ elements like the Contraband Stash, Key Stash, and Wallet Capacity.

And yes, DMZ will allow you to keep your extracted Cash from each match in a Wallet. You can then choose to re-infiltrate with a full pocket of Cash, potentially making it easier to complete objectives that require hundreds of thousands of Cash for completion… Or so your Operator can go on a spending spree.

Phalanx Faction, More DMZ Comms to Come

There is more intel to come on DMZ, including additional details on new and refreshed missions, Urgent Missions, a clandestine faction known as Phalanx that is [[REDACTED]], and the Signal Intelligence Contract. Expect declassification of all this info and more in a special Infinity Ward DMZ Community Update on June 9.

However, do not expect the new Boss [[REDACTED]], a vehicular [[REDACTED]], and Weapon Case Rewards such as [[REDACTED]] to be declassified until the start of Season 04.

For now, here is some initial intel on the new Dynamic Fog feature, which mostly pertains to action in DMZ:

Dynamic Fog

Because Vondel is built atop a network of canals and is technically below sea level, this location is subject to fog during certain inclement weather conditions. Initial intel suggests that fog could be present during DMZ infiltrations, as well as on very rare instances in other game modes.

This new technology in Call of Duty — dynamic fog — allows for players to feel more ingrained in the world of Modern Warfare II.

Especially during Resurgence and Battle Royale modes, Vondel’s usual weather is sunny with very few clouds — if any — in the sky. However, there is the possibility of fog rolling in due to the marine layer.

Typically, it is light enough to still see your opposition, except at extremely long ranges. However, in rare instances, the fog will have density to the level shown in the screenshot above.

If this level of fog rolls in, it may be wise tactically to reevaluate combat, seek weapon optics to circumvent the weather, or head indoors, giving yourself optimal combat opportunities.

Additional Features, New TAV

Expect the following new features coming to Vondel, with some also to appear across all maps in Warzone:

New Vehicle: The Tactical Amphibious Vehicle (TAV)

This four-passenger vehicle can travel over both land and water, making it the perfect ride for the streets and canals of Vondel.

Because of its amphibious nature, the TAV may not be the fastest vehicle on land or sea, but rather is a jack-of-all-trades for cruising the streets and canals around Vondel. Simply drive the TAV off the road and onto water, or emerge from the water onto an exit ramp, and you will see the TAV’s value in the vehicle lineup.

There is plenty of room for the whole squad, too, so don’t leave any of them behind without a tactical plan both in and out of Vondel’s waterways.

Favorite Supply Box (Assault of Vondel Event Unlock)

Formerly known as the “Personal Supply Box” in the original Call of Duty®: Warzone™, the Favorite Supply Box is a rare container that, when opened, unlocks your favorite weaponry and deposits it out for you to quickly gather and utilize.

Each Operator’s Favorite Supply Box contents will be different in theory, as the Box pulls the Primary and Secondary Weapons from the Favorite Loadout you choose, along with ammo and an Armor Plate. To choose a Favorite Loadout, simply go to the Weapons section of the Warzone menu before your match begins, hover over a Custom Loadout, then select “Set to Favorite.” You’ll know it works when there is a star icon next to the Loadout. By default, your first Custom Loadout is your Favorite Loadout.

Remember, this Supply Box is rare within Vondel, so when you find one, open it quickly to get your favorite weapons before an enemy player gets the opportunity to secure theirs!

Reinforcement Flare (Assault of Vondel Event Unlock)

This Field Upgrade can be an absolute game-changer in Battle Royale matches, as its purpose is for reinforcing your squad via squadmate redeployment.

After being purchased at a Buy Station or found via scavenging, the Reinforcement Flare can be placed to signal the return of a random squadmate. This is a little like a “Buy Station Redeployment” but without the ability to choose who gets revived.

A high-risk, high-reward option — due to the signal flare in the sky exposing you to your adversaries — consider this Field Upgrade as an option for that end-game Loadout.

New Public Event: High Stakes

In addition to other Public Events that are present in Battle Royale and Resurgence matches, Vondel will launch with a new Public Event: High Stakes.

When it starts, several Loadout-sized crates will drop from the sky. Capturing them grants Double Weapon and Player XP for the duration of the match. And if you’re wondering if this bonus stacks with Double XP Tokens or Double XP Events . . .

Yes — an Operator who already has Double XP active will gain QUADRUPLE XP if they or a squadmate secure this package.

An absolute boon for those looking to rank up quickly, prepare to double down when these crates fall from the sky.

Taxicabs on the Canals (Assault on Vondel Event)

Like Al Mazrah, Vondel has a train station, but given the smoldering wreckage on the tracks and the extensive canal network, there needs to be another way to get around the city on a self-piloted vehicle…

Enter the Taxicab, an autonomous boat accessible as part of the Assault on Vondel Event (detailed in the General Overview section of this blog). Planned to be deployed after Stage I of the Assault on Vondel is completed, these auto-piloted boats move around the canals on set routes, with Operators also able to “speed them up” should their leisurely pace be too slow for active firefights.

The Sandstorm Subsides in Al Mazrah

Al Mazrah no longer has a sandstorm buffeting Operators and Combatants, but the damage to downtown is already done.

Al Mazrah City now has several sand banks to climb upon, which offer new and creative ways to approach some of the city’s prominent buildings. Specifically, expect a massive sand dune up the side of the TV tower, the Embassy, and the “Highrise” building. The dunes also piled up across some roadways, including covering parts of the highway system, and nearly flooded entire small structures in the main downtown area.

There is also some partial destruction that will offer new approaches to maneuvering in, within, and out of the city.

More details on Al Mazrah updates will be provided in the Patch Notes next week.

More at Mid-Season: Vondel Battle Royale, Gulag

There’s no need to wait for Season 04 Reloaded, especially as you’ll want to be on Vondel at launch to learn all of its secrets.

However, Traditional Battle Royale fans should know that this main mode will be available on Vondel starting at Season 04 Reloaded. This includes a brand-new subterranean Gulag for Vondel, hidden deep within the more medieval parts of town.

Mid-season is also when the return of the Occupation Scan Public Event and a new quest for [[REDACTED]] involving [[REDACTED]] will be available.

MODERN WARFARE II OVERVIEW

• A Six-Pack of New Multiplayer Maps at Launch. Showdown. Kunstenaar (pronounced “khun-steh-nawr”) District. Mercado. Penthouse. Mawizeh Marsh. Ahkdar Village. Plus one more Core MP map planned for mid-season.
• Search & Destroy, Prisoner Rescue to Expand to 12v12 for a Limited Time. Expect the Playlist rotation to include these intense modes with double the number of players on each team.
• A New Ranked Season. Rise and grind; shoot for a new top Division and unlock those cool Ranked Rewards as you prepare for the exciting conclusion to the Call of Duty League season. More details in the General Overview.

Seven New Multiplayer Maps

From familiar locales to brand-new Multiplayer maps, Season 04 is coming out swinging at launch with two maps for each of the three Multiplayer experience types, along with a third Core map at mid-season:

Showdown (Core Map, Launch)

This map is originally from Call of Duty® 4: Modern Warfare® and is currently present in the Ahkdar Village area of Al Mazrah.

Now, as part of Season 04, this iconic map drops into Modern Warfare II at Season 04’s launch. It’s a great place to practice for those hot drops . . . or just drop airstrikes and helicopter Killstreaks with Gold weapons just like old times.

More intel on Showdown is to come before launch, but just know that it is exactly how you recall it with a few modern changes. Namely, some mantling/mounting spots and set pieces that bring it into Al Mazrah. Stick to the perimeter for “safety,” or go right down into the courtyard to potentially face the opposition head-on.

Kunstenaar District (Core Map, Launch)

Located west of the Museum in Vondel, the Kunstenaar District (translation: Arts District) features a row of town houses, boutique shops, a central plaza, and a swimmable canal along its west flank.

Check out the street art throughout the map as you battle along its classic three-lane design. Use the Shadow Company trucks and other vehicles for cover as you move up the main roads, and race across the map’s scattered interior locations to quickly change from lane to lane.

Want a first glimpse on this Vondel point of interest? Keep an eye out for our upcoming Kunstenaar District Multiplayer map guide on this blog.

Mercado (Gunfight Map, Launch)

The Mercado is a section of Las Almas cleared out for Gunfight and Face Off battles. Combat within this large, covered structure will be frenetic on multiple levels, so get ready to stay close to your duo or trio, get in, and get out.

Penthouse (Gunfight Map, Launch)

Time to take Gunfights all the way up to the top. The Penthouse, situated in the heart of Chicago, features a lap pool, an outdoor firepit, and a tight-angled modern interior. Just don’t stare at the Chicago skyline for too long, lest you get hit with a Finishing Move.

Mawizeh Marshlands (Battle Map, Launch)

Mawizeh Marshlands is from the region of the Al Mazrah map containing the infamous River Diamond Luxury Resort . . . or what’s left of it.

Get comfortable around this area with boots on the ground and in vehicular combat, and you’ll be more than prepared to take down the opposition in any game mode that occurs in this area, from the shallow, murky waters of the flooded swimming pool to the luxury resort under construction.

Ahkdar Village (Battle Map, Launch)

Similar to Mawizeh Marshlands, this Battle Map is a subsection of Al Mazrah — specifically, this map is the footprint of the fortified Ahkdar Village.

Action is mostly contained in the village (where Showdown is also located), and its most notable boarders are the railroad to the south and the stepped farms and base of the mountain to the north. Vehicular combat may be frequent within the city walls, although infantry can take to the battlements, rooftops, and alleyways to counter them.

Both of these maps are incredible ways to learn these specific sections for Warzone Battle Royale matches – from parkour paths and secrets to lines of sight and vehicle routes – so consider dropping into a Ground War or Invasion to gain some valuable intel.

Vondel Waterfront (Core Map, Mid-Season)

Although more intel is on the way for future operations this Season, expect core multiplayer combat to expand to a second Vondel location — the floating houses of Vondel Waterfront — as part of the mid-season update.

Search & Destroy, Prisoner Rescue to Expand to 12v12 in New Playlists

Those who recently played Modern Warfare II may have enjoyed the “10v10 Mosh Pit” Playlist, a collection of respawn game modes with increased lobby counts. Additionally, we know there is a large Search & Destroy and Prisoner Rescue community, with some wanting a bit more of a frenetic vibe and larger squad counts.

As part of regular Playlist updates, Modern Warfare II will introduce 12v12 Search & Destroy as well as a 12v12 Prisoner Rescue mode. These single-life game modes may be even more intense with double the players in the lobby…  Just remember to keep that trash talk respectful when you hit that clutch 1v7 moment.

The 6v6 versions of these experiences will still be available in Quick Play, but expect there to be Featured 12v12 Playlists of these modes during Season 04.

More at Mid-Season, Including RAID Finale

The last RAID episode for Special Ops will be released as part of Season 04 Reloaded. Prepare your trio for the exciting conclusion to the RAID series before [[REDACTED]]; complete Episode 04 also unlocks new skin for Farah.

As previously mentioned, expect the Vondel Waterfront Core Multiplayer map, as well as additional updates to come as part of Season 04 Reloaded.

GENERAL OVERVIEW

• The Assault on Vondel Begins at Launch. Complete challenges to unlock new items not just for yourself, but also for the entire community, including a new melee weapon: the Tonfa.
• New Weapons. In addition to the Tonfa, ready yourself with the Tempus Razorback Assault Rifle and ISO 45 SMG, both available for free in the Battlepass.
• New Operators, Including Nikto. The masked ex-cover agent returns with a vengeance. Other Operators include a total badass working for SpecGru and [[REDACTED]].
• Multiplayer and Warzone Ranked Season 04. Additional intel, including the Rewards for playing either Ranked mode.
• Prestige Levels Continue, New Challenges Available. Reach Level 850 to unlock a special Weapon Blueprint.

Prepare for the Assault on Vondel Event

Nikto has arrived, and he’s brought company.

This deep-cover agent is taking over Vondel with his cloaked army of mercenaries; as an Operator, your mission is to fight back against Nikto’s clandestine army and reclaim the city in the Assault on Vondel Launch Event.

The Assault on Vondel Launch Event is planned to begin on Season 04 launch day (June 14) and last until July 7.

You can do your part by completing challenges, which will give you medals for personal unlock rewards as well as contributing to the grand community medal count total.

Once a predetermined number of medals are earned, features such as the Taxi Boats & Tramways, Reinforcement Flare Field Upgrade, the Favorite Supply Box (detailed above in the Warzone section of this blog), and the new rough-hitting Tonfa melee weapon will be unlocked for all Operators to take advantage of.

Five New Operators, Including Nikto

Both SpecGru and KorTac are getting reinforcements as the action expands to Vondel.

Nikto (Launch – Battle Pass)

The former FSB deep-cover agent was first spotted in Modern Warfare® (2019), using his menacing signature black mask to cover the disfiguration of his face caused by Mr. Z. A methodical and calculated soldier, Nikto is a natural-born leader who appears to fear nothing, with next to no gaps in his skill set as the ultimate soldier of fortune.

He worked with the CIA to hunt Victor Zakhaev in Verdansk, but since October 2022, he’s been AWOL… Until Season 04.

Now in Modern Warfare II, he leads a new special forces group that is taking over Vondel. Whether he is the leader of this group is unknown, but one thing is for certain: He will stop at nothing to ensure the city is his to rule.

Io (Launch – BlackCell)

Biographical intel for this Operator has been [[REDACTED]].

Ana Vega (Launch Window – Bundle)

The daughter of paramedics and Army reservists with family roots in Cuba, Ana Vega never had the opportunity to get to know her parents. Both were killed during rescue operations in the early days of the Urzikstan conflict.

The Gold Star child followed in their footsteps in attempt to reconnect with her fallen parents, graduating with top honors from the United States Military Academy and enlisting in the Army’s Combat Medic Specialist Training Program (CMSTP).

Proving her exemplary proficiency in combat and as a medic, she eventually caught the attention of her commanding officer, who fast-tracked her to a position on a prestigious Special Forces unit with the 75th Ranger Regiment.

After demonstrating her worth, she became one of the first female Ranger combat medics and was later tapped for Task Force Pineapple– a volunteer unit designed to get US assts out of Central-West Asia. During the operation, Vega was critical in saving several wounded allies from the brink of death due to an RPG, earning her a Combat Medical Badge in the process.

Inspired by the op and her parents’ sacrifice for the greater good, Ana now lends her services to more humanitarian efforts as she currently works alongside PMCs providing protection and medical care on aid missions around the globe…

And you better believe she is ready to take on any mission in Multiplayer, Special Ops, or Warzone.

Izanami (AKA “Izzy”) (In-Season – Bundle)

Biographical intel for this Operator has been [[REDACTED]].

Butch (In-Season – Bundle)

Biographical and visual intel for this Operator has been [[REDACTED]].

In addition, expect Farah to receive a new Operator skin for those who complete RAID Episode 04 later this season, an exciting conclusion to the Modern Warfare II Campaign’s direct continuation. By Season 04 Reloaded, expect something extraordinary to come to the Operator pool as part of the Season 04 Reloaded update…

Increase your Arsenal with Four New Weapons

Two versatile weapons and a martial arts tool highlight the initial offering of new armaments for Season 04.

Tempus Razorback (Assault Rifle — Launch, Battle Pass)

A masterclass in exceptional manufacturing, this Tempus Armament assault rifle features a bullpup design and frame-vibration control, resulting in a smooth and controllable full-auto 5.56 weapon.

Unrelated to an “earlier” version of this weapon with the same name, the Tempus Razorback Assault Rifle offers an impressive damage profile, rapid rate of fire and is set to add to the already deep pool of jack-of-all-trades weaponry.

How to unlock: Unlock in Battle Pass Sector D13.

ISO 45 (SMG — Launch, Battle Pass)

The ISO Platform’s answer to room clearing. This SMG dominates with a high fire rate and the stopping power of .45 Auto rounds.

A throwback to Modern Warfare (2019), the ISO 45 functions similarly to the old ISO, known for its lightweight design and decent fire rate for short- to midrange engagements. Its higher-caliber rounds make it a heavy-hitter compared to its fast-firing counterparts, but require the Operator to get those shots on target.

How to unlock: Unlock in Battle Pass Sector D19.

Tonfa (Melee — Launch Window, Assault on Vondel Event Unlock)

This hard-polymer, edgeless melee weapon delivers blunt trauma without risk of dulling or breaking. Versatile, comfortable, and lethal in the right hands.

Centuries ago, warriors on the Japanese Ryukyu islands defended themselves using martial Kobudō — the “old martial way” using armor and weapons such as the bo staff and sai.

Another one of these weapons is known as the Tonfa. This wooden baton has a handle located roughly a third of the way down the weapon’s length. Dual-wielded, the Tonfa is a defensive weapon first (although there is no way to “block” in Call of Duty), but it is a powerful tool for dealing devastating strikes to your opponents.

In addition to having some new Finishing Moves, this new martial arts tool offers a unique change-of-pace option within the Secondary Melee Weapon pool.

How to unlock: The final Assault on Vondel Unlock, along with the “Lion’s Share” Weapon Blueprint.

Additional Armament: Expect the [[REDACTED]] Shotgun to be added to your available arsenal at Season 04’s mid-season point.

Multiplayer and Warzone Ranked Play in Season 04

Season 04 of Modern Warfare II and Warzone bring another Ranked Season, with this being the first-ever full Ranked Season of Warzone!

Hopefully you’re ready to compete, because there are plenty of new rewards for both Multiplayer and Battle Royale Ranked Play: 

Multiplayer Ranked Play Rewards

• 5 Wins: ‘Season 04 Competitor’ Weapon Sticker
• 10 Wins: Pro Re-Issue Vaznev-9k Weapon Blueprint
• 25 Wins: ‘Please Rotate’ Weapon Charm
• 50 Wins: ‘Lock it Down’ Large Weapon Decal
• 75 Wins: ‘MWII Ranked Play Season 04’ Loading Screen
• 100 Wins: ‘MWII Season 04 Ranked Veteran’ Weapon Camo

Battle Royale Ranked Play Rewards

Placement Challenges

• Finish ‘Top 15’ 25 Times: ‘Cash Out’ Large Decal
• Finish ‘Top 5’ 25 Times: Pro Issue Lachman Sub Blueprint
• Finish 1st Place: ‘Team Wipe’ Weapon Charm

Kill & Assist Challenges

• Get 25 Kills or Assists: ‘WZ Season 04 Competitor’ Sticker
• Get 250 Kills or Assists: ‘WZ Ranked Play Season 04’ Loading Screen
• Get 1000 Kills or Assists: ‘WZ Season 04 Ranked Veteran’ Camo

Earning Rewards and Top 250

In addition, you can still earn rewards based on your highest Division reached during that the season. Remember that your starting Division (and SR) is based on how you finished in Season 03.

And remember: the #1 player in Season 04 on the Top 250 Leaderboard will receive a unique, one-of-a-kind Calling Card and Emblem for the ultimate bragging rights… Until Season 05, because a true number one player is only as good as their last season.

For more information on this, consult the Multiplayer Ranked Play Guide here and the Warzone Ranked Play Guide here. Also, check the Patch Notes for additional Ranked Play insights, updates, and information on exact Divisional Rewards for Battle Royle.

Prestige Levels Continue, New Challenges Available

It’s time step up to Prestige 17.

When Season 04 launches, the Prestige Rank cap is set to increase from 13 to 17, with a new maximum level cap of 850. Each of the four new Prestige Ranks and 200 levels come with a new icon besides the number, as follows:

• Prestige 14: Unlocked at Level 700.
• Prestige 15: Unlocked at Level 750.
• Prestige 16: Unlocked at Level 800.
• Prestige 17: Unlocked at Level 850 — this is the maximum level that can be achieved in Season 04. Players will also receive an exclusive Weapon Blueprint for reaching this Prestige Rank.

Remember that every Prestige Rank you’ve unlocked so far – and the additional Prestige Ranks available at the start of Season 04 – unlock a new set of Challenges. To access all the Challenges available in the game, simply open the COD HQ menu (visible at the top-right of your screen), select the “Challenges” tile, and for Prestige-related Challenges, check out the Calling Card Challenges section. Complete these Prestige Challenges to earn new Calling Cards, including Animated Calling Cards for completing full sets of Challenges.

As before, all progress will not reset at the beginning of each Season. You can continue ranking up at the level at which you ended Season 03, whether it was before the Prestige Ranks (1–55) or within the Prestige Ranks (56–650).

Patch Notes Available Next Week

In addition to blog posts about featured seasonal content, the Call of Duty studios will release Patch Notes that detail all the changes coming with this major seasonal update.

Patch Notes will include weapon balancing updates, as well as bug fixes and more. Expect Season 04 Patch Notes to drop just prior to launch, on June 14.

OUT OF COMBAT OVERVIEW

• New Official Twitter account is now online. CODUpdates is dedicated to publishing centralized updates regarding live-game issues, fixes, patch notes, and more.
• When the Chips Are Down, Who Will Fold? And who will win Call of Duty League 2023 Championship? Witness all the action at the Call of Duty League Championship Weekend going down June 15 – 18 at the Thomas & Mack Center UNLV.
• Your Own Personal Ghost. Everyone needs Ghost watching their six; get the new figurine from the COD Shop and stay frosty.
• Still Time to Upgrade. With dozens of weapon platforms to level up and a dozen-plus Operators to unlock – not to mentioning everything coming in Season 04 – there is plenty of reasons to get Modern Warfare II.

New Official Twitter Account: CODUpdates

In partnership with our incredible studios collaborating on the Call of Duty franchise, we are excited to announce a new official Twitter account that’s dedicated to publishing centralized updates regarding live-game issues, fixes, patch notes, and more: @CODUpdates.

Begin following today to be up-to-date on the latest consolidated updates across all games and modes, including Call of Duty: Warzone and Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II, as well as our full library of Call of Duty titles. This new effort, bringing together important updates across all of the Call of Duty studios, is a part of an ongoing effort to keep our players informed with all the latest intel from across the franchise. Drop in and give us a follow to never miss an update!

The Call of Duty League 2023 Championship Goes All In

 It’s all come down to this:

The 2023 Call of Duty League season is coming to a close June 15-18. The top eight teams with the most CDL points will head to Las Vegas, where they will compete for the coveted $2M+ prize pool and priceless bragging rights as the best Modern Warfare II team in the world. Don’t miss the action, snag your tickets before they’re gone. Fans can also catch every second of the heat live on Twitch and YouTube, while earning viewership rewards to unlock in-game.

And for fans who are looking to tout their best in gameplay, the 2023 CDL Championship Pack is now available.

COD Shop Highlight: Orion Ghost Collectible

The Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II Orion Ghost Collectible Figurine is small but mighty. Standing at 6.5 inches tall, this collectible depicts Ghost in an all-too-familiar camo. Only this time, it’s not just his weapon standing out. Buy it here!

Head over to the Call of Duty Shop for more figures and collectibles, as well as the latest in COD merch.

Upgrade to Modern Warfare II, Get Rewarded in Warzone

Haven’t experienced Modern Warfare II yet?

You are missing out on Premium XP while playing Warzone, quick ways to level up over 50 weapons through Multiplayer and Special Ops, Multiplayer Ranked Play and its exclusive rewards, and the ability to unlock 14 exclusive Operators to use across both games.

Plus, those who own Modern Warfare II can access content coming as part of Season 04, including six additional Multiplayer maps across Gunfight, Core 6v6 modes, and Battle Maps for all-out Ground War skirmishes… All dropping right when the season launches on June 14.

Stay frosty.

Key Features:

• Modern Warfare ll picks up the action as the sequel to Modern Warfare 2019, as the newly formed Task Force 141 faces a massive global threat across a campaign of missions that push the boundaries of gameplay.
• The action takes players around the world as Task Force 141 works to neutralize a terrorist conspiracy and attack on the US, spanning locations around the globe.
• A newly aligned menace conspires to create chaos inside the US' borders and Task Force 141 must come together against all odds.
• Players will fight alongside the most iconic characters in Modern Warfare, including Captain Price, Ghost, Soap, Gaz and Laswell, as well as encounter a host of lethal new allies like Mexican Special Forces, Colonel Alejandro Vargas and adversaries drawn from the murkiest corners of the global war on terror.
• Infinity Ward has continued to innovate upon the blockbuster Modern Warfare 2019, ushering in the new era of Call of Duty. In a memorable new take on classic boots-on-the-ground gameplay, players will need to strategically consider the role of night vision, stealth, amphibious assaults, vehicular warfare, and more as they fight against the odds.
• Modern Warfare ll and a new Warzone 2.0 experience will deliver revolutionary new advancements in Al that affect each game experience, including squad mate positioning & enemy patterns to NPCs & civilian movement, & much more, all dynamically react to your choices.
• New gunsmith that provides players with a massive amount of weapon customization.
• Ricochet Anti-Cheat will continue its multi-faceted approach to combat cheating in Modern Warfare II and to the new Warzone 2.0 experience. Team Ricochet is bringing its consistently updated suite of server-side tools and detection systems to our title in an effort to fight unfair play.

Call Of Duty: Modern Warfare II is available for PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S and PC.