Is Modern Warfare 2 the Newest? Exploring the Latest in the Call of Duty Franchise
The short answer is no, Modern Warfare 2 (2022) is not the newest Call of Duty title. While it was a major release in the franchise, the most recent addition to the mainline Call of Duty series is Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3, which launched in November 2023. This might be confusing for some, given the naming similarities with the older titles, but let’s dive into the details and clear up any confusion surrounding the current Call of Duty landscape.
Understanding the Modern Warfare Lineage
The Call of Duty franchise has a complex history with reboots and similar-sounding titles. The original Modern Warfare series, which started in 2007, was hugely popular and included classics like Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare and Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 (2009). Fast forward to 2019, and we have a reboot of the Modern Warfare series, starting with Call of Duty: Modern Warfare (2019).
Modern Warfare 2 (2022) is a sequel to the 2019 reboot, not a remake of the 2009 game. This is crucial to understand when you’re navigating the franchise. It’s also essential to note that Modern Warfare 2 (2022) acts as a kind of prequel in terms of the overall storyline to the older Modern Warfare 2 (2009). The events in the 2022 game set up the storyline of the infamous villain Makarov, which becomes a focal point in the older Modern Warfare 2.
Modern Warfare 3: The Newest Title
Released in November 2023, Modern Warfare 3 is the twentieth main installment in the Call of Duty series and the direct sequel to Modern Warfare 2 (2022). It continues the story where its predecessor left off, adding new characters and plotlines while also reintroducing familiar faces. This is significant because it shows how the modern Modern Warfare sub-series is developing its own narrative that builds upon the foundations laid by its previous titles.
The release of Modern Warfare 3 was particularly notable as there were rumors of Call of Duty possibly skipping a year. However, Activision confirmed the release, solidifying the continuation of the annual release cycle for the franchise. This newest game is being developed by Sledgehammer Games.
Key Takeaways
- Modern Warfare 2 (2022) is not the newest Call of Duty game.
- The newest title is Modern Warfare 3 (2023).
- Modern Warfare 2 (2022) is a sequel to the 2019 reboot, and a prequel of sorts to the original Modern Warfare 2 (2009) in terms of plot.
- The franchise has seen a rebooted timeline.
What Does This Mean for Players?
For players, this means understanding that the current Modern Warfare sub-series, including Modern Warfare (2019), Modern Warfare 2 (2022), and Modern Warfare 3 (2023), exists within a separate continuity from the original Modern Warfare games. Jumping into the newest title might be easier if you’ve played the 2019 and 2022 games, as the storylines directly connect. However, each entry is designed to be accessible, with tutorials and background information to orient new players.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions that provide further insight into the Call of Duty franchise and the Modern Warfare series specifically:
1. How many mainline Call of Duty games are there?
Currently, there are 23 mainline Call of Duty games, including both Warzone and Warzone 2. The latest addition being Modern Warfare 3 (2023).
2. Should I play Modern Warfare 1 (2019) before Modern Warfare 2 (2022)?
It’s not strictly necessary, but playing Modern Warfare (2019) provides valuable background knowledge to the plot of Modern Warfare 2 (2022).
3. Is Modern Warfare 2 (2022) a prequel to the original Modern Warfare 2 (2009)?
Yes, in a way. While it’s not a prequel to the gameplay of Modern Warfare 2 (2009), the storyline and events in Modern Warfare 2 (2022) directly set up the plot involving Makarov in the 2009 title.
4. Is Modern Warfare 2 (2022) a remake?
No, Modern Warfare 2 (2022) is a sequel to the 2019 reboot and the nineteenth installment overall, not a remake of the 2009 game.
5. What Call of Duty was released in 2023?
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 was released in November 2023.
6. How does the new Modern Warfare 2 (2022) compare to the old Modern Warfare 2 (2009)?
The original Modern Warfare 2 has a more compelling campaign, while the 2022 Modern Warfare 2 boasts better, more balanced multiplayer and some of the best new game modes.
7. Are Modern Warfare 2 (2022) and the original Modern Warfare 2 (2009) the same game?
No, they are different games with different stories and mechanics, despite the similar names. The 2022 version is the one with the Roman numerals.
8. Is the new Modern Warfare series connected to the old ones?
The new Modern Warfare series is a reboot and prequel to the original series. It creates the background for the formation of Price’s team.
9. How do you play Call of Duty games in chronological order?
The most straightforward way is to play them by release date. Check for a full list of release dates to be sure.
10. Is Modern Warfare 2 (2022) in the same timeline as the original Modern Warfare 2 (2009)?
No, they exist in different timelines. Despite similar characters, the 2022 game takes place in a different year.
11. Which Call of Duty game sold the most?
Call of Duty: Black Ops (2010) is the best-selling game in the franchise, selling 31 million copies.
12. Does Modern Warfare 2 (2022) have zombies?
Yes, Modern Warfare 2 (2022) does have a zombie-like mode. It features twisted takes on classic modes with zombie elements.
13. What Call of Duty games have zombies?
Several games have zombies, including, Black Ops 3, Black Ops Cold War, Black Ops, World At War, Black Ops 2, Advanced Warfare, Infinite Warfare and World War 2.
14. What are the key differences between Modern Warfare (2019) and Modern Warfare 2 (2022)?
Modern Warfare 2 (2022) builds upon the foundation of its predecessor, adding new mechanics, weapon customization options, game modes, and polish.
15. Is the new Modern Warfare 3 (2023) a remake?
No, Modern Warfare 3 (2023) is a direct sequel to Modern Warfare 2 (2022) and the twentieth main game in the series, not a remake.
Conclusion
While Modern Warfare 2 (2022) was a significant release, it is not the newest Call of Duty title. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 (2023) takes that crown. Understanding the complex lineage and the multiple Modern Warfare titles can help fans and new players alike navigate the franchise’s rich and engaging history. Hopefully, this article has clarified any confusion and provided valuable insight into the current state of the Call of Duty universe. Happy gaming!