Is Call of Duty: Modern Warfare (2019) Worth It for the Campaign? A Veteran’s Take

Absolutely. If you’re even remotely a fan of first-person shooters with compelling narratives, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare (2019)’s campaign is absolutely worth the price of admission. It’s a masterclass in gritty storytelling, tense gameplay, and visual fidelity, setting a new standard for single-player experiences in the Call of Duty franchise. While opinions vary, the consensus leans heavily toward it being one of the best campaigns in the series, and a shining example of how to reboot a classic with respect and innovation.

Diving Deep: What Makes the MW Campaign Exceptional?

Modern Warfare (2019) doesn’t just rely on explosions and set pieces. Instead, it builds a narrative that explores the complexities of modern warfare, blurring the lines between good and evil. You’re thrust into scenarios that are morally challenging, forcing you to consider the consequences of your actions. This isn’t your typical “Rah rah, America!” storyline; it’s a more nuanced and realistic portrayal of conflict, with the game aiming for gritty realism.

A Gritty and Grounded Narrative

The story itself is a major highlight. It features a combination of familiar faces like Captain Price alongside new characters like Alex, all woven into a plot involving terrorist groups, foreign interference, and the use of chemical weapons. The campaign tackles tough subjects, and it does so with a level of maturity rarely seen in mainstream action games.

Immersive and Intense Gameplay

Beyond the narrative, the gameplay is exceptionally well-crafted. The campaign features a diverse range of missions, from stealth infiltrations to large-scale firefights. The realistic gunplay feels weighty and satisfying, and the enemy AI is challenging without being unfair. Moreover, the game’s stunning visuals and sound design further amplify the sense of immersion, making you feel like you’re truly in the thick of the action.

A Return to Form

For many long-time Call of Duty fans, Modern Warfare (2019) felt like a return to form. After years of increasingly futuristic settings, the game’s return to modern combat was a welcome change. It captured the spirit of the original Modern Warfare while also modernizing the gameplay and storytelling for a new generation of players.

Considerations Before Buying

While the campaign is largely praised, there are a few things to keep in mind.

• Short Length: As with many Call of Duty campaigns, Modern Warfare’s is relatively short, clocking in at around 5-6 hours for most players. While the quality is high, it’s something to consider if you’re primarily looking for a lengthy single-player experience.
• Mature Themes: The game deals with mature themes, including terrorism, torture, and the use of chemical weapons. It may not be suitable for younger players or those sensitive to such content.
• Online Requirements: Depending on your platform and version of the game, you may need an online connection for certain aspects, even for single-player.

Ultimately, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare (2019) is worth it for the campaign, especially if you value a well-crafted narrative, intense gameplay, and a more realistic take on modern warfare. It’s a standout title in the Call of Duty franchise and a worthwhile experience for any fan of the genre. If you are interested in learning more about how games influence learning and development, explore the work of the Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 15 frequently asked questions about Call of Duty: Modern Warfare (2019)’s campaign, designed to provide you with a comprehensive understanding before you make your purchase.

1. How long is the Call of Duty: Modern Warfare (2019) campaign?

   • The campaign typically takes around 5-6 hours to complete, depending on your skill level and difficulty setting. While concise, it’s a very replayable experience.

2. What is the story about in Modern Warfare (2019)?

   • The story revolves around a group of special forces operators and rebel fighters as they battle against terrorist groups and uncover a conspiracy involving chemical weapons. The narrative explores the complexities of modern warfare and the moral dilemmas faced by soldiers in the field.

3. Who are the main characters in the Modern Warfare (2019) campaign?

   • The main characters include Captain Price, a returning fan favorite; Sergeant Kyle “Gaz” Garrick, a British SAS officer; CIA operative Alex, and Farah Karim, the leader of the Urzikstan Liberation Force.

4. Is the Modern Warfare (2019) campaign realistic?

   • While the campaign is grounded in a more realistic setting than some other Call of Duty games, it still takes liberties for the sake of storytelling. The game incorporates photogrammetry and performance capture to enhance realism.

5. Is the Modern Warfare (2019) campaign scary?

   • The campaign features moments of intense suspense and horror, particularly in missions involving close-quarters combat and hostage situations. While not a horror game, it can be unsettling at times.

6. Does Modern Warfare (2019) have a good story?

   • Yes, many consider Modern Warfare (2019) to have one of the best stories in the Call of Duty franchise. It’s a gritty, grounded, and thought-provoking narrative that explores the complexities of modern warfare.

7. What difficulty should I play Modern Warfare (2019) on?

   • If you’re new to Call of Duty, start on Regular difficulty. Veterans of the series may want to try Hardened or Veteran for a more challenging experience.

8. Are there any memorable missions in the Modern Warfare (2019) campaign?

   • Yes, many missions are highly memorable, including “Piccadilly,” “Clean House,” and “Hometown.” These missions showcase the game’s intense gameplay and compelling storytelling.

9. Can I play the Modern Warfare (2019) campaign offline?

   • Depending on your platform and version of the game, you may need an online connection to access certain aspects of the campaign, even when playing solo.

10. What do I unlock for completing the Modern Warfare (2019) campaign?

    • Completing the campaign unlocks Captain Price’s Union Guard Weapon Blueprint for use in multiplayer and other modes.

11. Is Modern Warfare (2019) the same as the original Modern Warfare?

    • No, Modern Warfare (2019) is a reboot of the original Modern Warfare series, with a new story and characters (though some familiar faces return). It’s not a direct remake or remaster.

12. Is the Modern Warfare (2019) campaign worth replaying?

    • Yes, the campaign is definitely worth replaying, especially on higher difficulty levels. You may also discover new details and appreciate the story in a different light.

13. How does the Modern Warfare (2019) campaign compare to other Call of Duty campaigns?

    • Many consider the Modern Warfare (2019) campaign to be among the best in the series, alongside titles like Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare and Call of Duty: Black Ops.

14. Does the Modern Warfare (2019) campaign have any controversial moments?

    • Yes, some missions have been criticized for their depictions of violence and their potential for misinterpretation. However, the game attempts to portray the complexities of war without glorifying it.

15. Where can I learn more about the themes and topics explored in Modern Warfare (2019)?

    • You can explore academic research and analysis of video games and their impact on society through organizations like the GamesLearningSociety.org. These resources can provide a deeper understanding of the game’s themes and their relevance to real-world issues.