Is MW2 the Newest Call of Duty? Untangling the Modern Warfare Timeline
The short answer is no, Modern Warfare 2 (2022) is not the newest Call of Duty game. While it’s a significant title in the franchise, it has been succeeded by Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III (2023). Understanding the intricacies of the Call of Duty release schedule, particularly within the Modern Warfare sub-series, can be a bit confusing. This article aims to clarify the current landscape of the franchise and address common questions surrounding the recent releases, particularly the differences and connections between MW2 and MW3. Let’s delve into the details to provide a clear picture for both casual players and die-hard fans.
The Call of Duty Release Cadence
Call of Duty is a long-running, prolific franchise with multiple sub-series. To keep up, it’s useful to understand that the main games are released annually, often with variations within a single year that include separate titles like Warzone and Mobile versions. The core, numbered releases, usually have one game released each year that is considered the primary release of that year.
Modern Warfare 2 (2022), also often referred to as simply MWII, is the sequel to 2019’s Modern Warfare. It’s important to note that this is a soft reboot, not a remake, of the original Modern Warfare 2 released in 2009. The 2022 release reimagines the storyline and characters of the original, enhancing them for modern storytelling. Think of it as a fresh take on an established concept, rather than a direct copy. It introduced elements that built upon the established universe of the 2019 Modern Warfare reboot and was a significant launch with a large player base.
The Current Title: Modern Warfare III
The current and newest release is Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III (2023), often referred to as MWIII. Released in November 2023, MWIII is not only the newest game but a direct sequel to Modern Warfare 2 (2022), making it a unique installment in the series because it’s the first time a direct sequel has been released in back-to-back years. It continues the storyline and expands on the events of MWII, further developing the established characters and introducing new challenges. The game is developed by Sledgehammer Games and published by Activision. This is a very important distinction to understand, especially considering there are two titles called Modern Warfare 2.
How the Games Relate to Each Other
Understanding the link between Modern Warfare titles is key to grasping the franchise. The relationship is not simply chronological but also thematic. The original Modern Warfare trilogy (2007-2011), which included Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare, Modern Warfare 2, and Modern Warfare 3, told a continuous story. The more recent Modern Warfare reboot series, starting in 2019, is a retelling with new characters and plot developments, while paying homage to the originals. Therefore, it’s important not to confuse the original with the reboots.
- Modern Warfare (2019) began the rebooted sub-series.
- Modern Warfare 2 (2022) continues that storyline but is not a continuation of the original 2009 Modern Warfare 2.
- Modern Warfare III (2023) is the direct sequel to 2022’s Modern Warfare 2.
This sequence means that the 2023 title is the current game. There is no current plan for a 2024 Modern Warfare title (however there is a 2024 Call of Duty game slated for release, rumored to be Black Ops: Gulf War).
Other Call of Duty Releases
It is also crucial to understand that in addition to the core Modern Warfare series, there are other concurrent Call of Duty releases such as Call of Duty: Warzone (a battle royale game), Call of Duty: Mobile, and the upcoming Call of Duty: Warzone Mobile.. These games add to the overall complexity of the franchise and while they often operate alongside a core release, they can add to the confusion as they are part of the same wider ecosystem.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
To further clarify any confusion surrounding Modern Warfare 2 and the larger Call of Duty franchise, here are some frequently asked questions:
1. What is the newest Call of Duty game overall?
The newest Call of Duty game is Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III (2023), released in November 2023.
2. How many mainline Call of Duty games are there?
There are currently 23 mainline Call of Duty games, including Warzone and Warzone 2.
3. Is the new Modern Warfare 2 (2022) a remake of the old one?
No, it’s not a remake. It’s a soft reboot of the original Modern Warfare 2 (2009), reimagining the storyline and characters for modern audiences.
4. Is Modern Warfare 2 (2022) a prequel to the original Modern Warfare series?
No, it’s not a prequel. It’s a soft reboot and the events are set in a contemporary time period but are not directly connected to the original storyline of the earlier trilogy.
5. Is Modern Warfare 2 (2022) still playable?
Yes, Modern Warfare 2 (2022) is still playable and enjoys an active player base. It remains a popular choice for many players, despite the launch of Modern Warfare III.
6. What came out in 2023, Modern Warfare 2 or Modern Warfare 3?
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III (2023) was released in 2023.
7. Is the newest Modern Warfare game worth playing?
Whether or not Modern Warfare III (2023) is worth playing depends on individual preferences, though the reviews were mixed. However, the game features a new campaign, multiplayer, and zombies mode.
8. Does Modern Warfare 2 (2022) have a zombies mode?
No, Modern Warfare 2 (2022) does not have a traditional Zombies mode. However, it did feature some modified versions of existing modes with zombies. Modern Warfare III (2023) introduces zombies into the Modern Warfare universe for the first time.
9. Is Call of Duty: Mobile being phased out?
No, despite initial rumors, Call of Duty: Mobile is not being phased out. It is set to run alongside Warzone Mobile once the latter is released.
10. How big is the download size for Modern Warfare 2?
The base download for Modern Warfare 2 (2022) is approximately 151.4 GB, with additional co-op and multiplayer packs.
11. Is there a remastered version of the original Modern Warfare 2?
The original Modern Warfare 2 campaign was remastered in 2020, however, this is separate from the 2022 release.
12. What is the correct order to play the Call of Duty games?
The most basic way to play the games is in order of release, starting with the original Call of Duty (2003). The order is readily available with a simple internet search.
13. Which Call of Duty game has sold the most copies?
Call of Duty: Black Ops (2010) has sold the most copies, with over 31 million.
14. How much does Modern Warfare III cost?
The digital edition of Modern Warfare III is priced at $69.99.
15. What is the 2024 Call of Duty game?
The 2024 Call of Duty game is rumored to be titled Black Ops: Gulf War, which is speculated to be a sequel to Black Ops: Cold War.
Conclusion
In summary, while Modern Warfare 2 (2022) was a significant release, it is not the newest Call of Duty game. That title belongs to Modern Warfare III (2023). The franchise has a complex and iterative structure, and understanding the relationships between the various Modern Warfare titles can be confusing. However, by understanding the history and release cadence, you can better appreciate the evolving world of Call of Duty. This article hopefully clarifies your questions, and empowers you to make the right choice for your gaming experience.