Call of Duty and Squid Game Cross Over: What You Need to Know
In September 2021, the dystopian Netflix show Squid Game captivated audiences worldwide. The series follows marginalized individuals fighting for survival in a deadly game orchestrated by the wealthy elite. Now, this hit show is making its way into the gaming world through a crossover event with Call of Duty, timed nicely for the release of Squid Game’s second season.
Revealing the Call of Duty Squid Game Event
The Call of Duty Squid Game event is set to launch on January 3, 2025, bringing new game modes to both Black Ops 6 and Warzone. This update not only introduces exciting gaming content but also marks a significant shift towards increased monetization through a premium event rewards track. As detailed in the official blog post by Call of Duty, here’s what players can expect from the event.
Release Date and Times
The new update includes skins for Squid Game guards and players alike.
Activision
Excitingly, the update is already live across all platforms, allowing players to start enjoying the new modes and progressing the event pass immediately upon downloading the patch. For those waiting for the official drop, here are the exact launch times across different time zones:
- Eastern Standard Time: January 3, 2025, at 12 p.m.
- Central Standard Time: January 3, 2025, at 11 a.m.
- Mountain Time: January 3, 2025, at 10 a.m.
- Pacific Time: January 3, 2025, at 9 a.m.
Note that PC players have the option to preload updates ahead of time, while console players will receive the patch shortly after it’s live on the servers.
Freebies and Premium Rewards
This update brings a new mini battle pass to the Squid Game event.
Activision
One bright spot in the update is the inclusion of a free operator skin—Niran’s Player 006 skin—available to every Black Ops 6 and Warzone player without the need to spend any money or effort. This is a gesture to keep the event accessible and engaging.
However, the new Squid Game event also introduces a paid event pass, providing exclusive rewards like new weapon blueprints and the Front Man operator skin. While some might appreciate the variety of rewards within the premium pass, there are concerns it could set a precedent for future events, potentially leading to increased in-game purchasing requirements.
Squid Game-Inspired Game Modes
The crossover aims to capture the essence of the original series through new limited-time modes in multiplayer, zombies, and Warzone. Each mode reflects iconic elements of Squid Game while providing fresh gameplay experiences in Call of Duty.
Multiplayer Modes
There’s some element of “red light, green light” in most of the LTMs.
Activision
Black Ops 6’s multiplayer sees the introduction of four new playlists inspired by Squid Game. The Red Light, Green Light format is central to these modes, familiarizing players with the show’s dangerous, adrenaline-pumping games.
- Red Light, Green Light: Three rounds of the childhood favorite, evolving from a melee weapon-free standoff to incorporating combat in later rounds.
- Pentathlon: Features familiar Domination, Kill Confirmed, and Hardpoint modes, with two new Squid Game-inspired gameplay twists.
- Piggy Bank Team Deathmatch: Earn extra points for kills and strategically take the piggy bank when available.
- Roulette: A twist on the deadly game ‘One in the Chamber’—eliminate opponents, but watch out for sudden self-destruct.
- Squid Game Moshpit: Combines elements of the above, introducing a red light, green light game mechanic that can change the tide.
Zombies Modes
Dead Light, Green Light will force players to spend their points as soon as possible, rather than save them up for massive purchases later.
Activision
The Zombies game mode features the “Dead Light, Green Light” concept on Liberty Falls and Citadelle des Morts maps. During the red light, players will gradually lose points for movement, while the green light phase doubles earned points. This innovative system ties the classic ‘red light, green light’ game with the hardships of survival in a zombie apocalypse.
Warzone Modes
Squid Game actually makes a lot of sense for a game like Call of Duty Warzone.
Activision
Warzone sees Urzikstan transformed into a Squid Game-inspired arena featuring themed challenges. The red light, green light mechanic is also integrated, requiring strategic planning to avoid sudden eliminations.
New Tracer Packs
Activision
In addition to the free and premium tracks, Squid Game-themed microtransactions are available in the Call of Duty store. Three new Tracer Packs offer operator skins, weapon blueprints, and other bonuses:
- Pink Guards Tracer Pack: Includes operator skins for three masked guards, weapon blueprints, and various cosmetic items.
- VIPs Tracer Pack: Features operator skins for two VIP characters, weapon blueprints, and more cosmetic items, reflecting the show’s rich characters.
- Young-hee Tracer Pack: Allows players to play as Young-hee, the creepy hostess, alongside weapon blueprints and cosmetic options, providing a unique gaming experience.
Conclusion
The Call of Duty Squid Game crossover offers an exciting blend of compelling narrative and competitive gameplay, showcasing the potential of crossover content in the gaming industry. The inclusion of new modes,operator skins, and cosmetic items caters to both casual and hardcore players. However, the monetization aspect of the premium event pass introduces a new dynamic that some gamers may view as a step in the direction of mandatory in-game purchases.
As always, the key will be in how well these elements come together to provide a compelling experience. With this Squid Game crossover, Call of Duty takes a significant leap towards becoming an all-inclusive, story-driven gaming universe.
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