Is the New Modern Warfare 2 a Prequel to the Original?
The short answer is no, the new Modern Warfare 2 (2022), often referred to as MWII, is not a prequel to the original Modern Warfare 2 (2009). Instead, it’s more accurately described as a soft reboot within a separate, alternate timeline. While it borrows heavily from the original series in terms of characters, plot elements, and overall tone, it is a fresh start with a distinct narrative trajectory. This new MW2 serves as a direct continuation of the 2019 Modern Warfare reboot, creating a new continuity for the franchise. It is, therefore, a part of a different narrative arc and should be understood as a separate entity from the original Modern Warfare timeline.
The Rebooted Modern Warfare Timeline
The 2019 Call of Duty: Modern Warfare initiated a reimagining of the iconic series, effectively setting the stage for a new narrative. It’s not a simple remaster; it introduces new elements while paying homage to the original trilogy. MWII picks up directly after the events of the 2019 reboot, continuing the story of Task Force 141 in this new continuity.
This reboot strategy allows the developers to revisit familiar themes and characters with a fresh perspective, avoiding the constraints of the original storyline while leveraging its established fanbase. The new MWII takes character archetypes, like Ghost and Captain Price, and reimagines their backstories and interpersonal dynamics within this new timeline. This means that the events, character arcs, and overall progression are different from the original Modern Warfare games, even though we may encounter similar plot points or situations.
Key Differences in Approach
While the new Modern Warfare series may seem to mirror the original games at times, there are essential distinctions. In the original timeline, we witness the tragic end of Ghost and Roach at the hands of General Shepherd. This specific event does not occur in the new Modern Warfare timeline in the same way. Though there are elements of betrayal, it unfolds differently, preserving key characters like Ghost for future installments.
Furthermore, the development team has emphasized a focus on modern storytelling, which translates to a more nuanced and detailed portrayal of characters and their motivations. This, combined with an altered timeline, further solidifies the point that the new MW2 is not a simple prequel. It is a reinterpretation designed to engage a contemporary audience while honoring the original series’ legacy.
Modern Warfare 3: The Direct Sequel
It’s essential to understand that Modern Warfare 3 (2023) is the direct sequel to Modern Warfare 2 (2022). The narrative picks up immediately after the events of the final mission in MWII, establishing a clear sequential relationship. This is significant because it shows that the new MW2 is not setting up the events of the original Modern Warfare 3. Instead, it is directly building up to the new Modern Warfare 3 which continues within the rebooted continuity.
The inclusion of the infamous villain Makarov in the new MW3 further solidifies the connection and demonstrates the direction this rebooted series is heading. The new MW3 is taking the narrative from the end of the new MW2, not from the end of the original Modern Warfare timeline.
FAQs About the New Modern Warfare Timeline
Here are some frequently asked questions to help you further understand the relationship between the original and rebooted Modern Warfare series:
1. Is the New Modern Warfare 2 a Remake?
No, it’s not a remake. It’s a soft reboot, meaning it retells the story of the original series within a new continuity and not a complete recreation of an existing game.
2. Is the New Modern Warfare Connected to the Old Modern Warfare Series?
Yes, but loosely. It is a reboot within an alternate timeline. It shares characters and themes, but the story and events are not a direct continuation or prequel to the original series.
3. How is Ghost Alive in the New MW2?
The new MW2 exists in an alternate timeline, where the betrayal that resulted in Ghost’s death in the original game doesn’t happen the same way. He lives on to be a key part of Task Force 141.
4. Does MW2 Lead Into MW3?
Yes, the new MW3 is a direct sequel to the new MW2, continuing the story immediately after the events of the latter’s campaign.
5. Is the New MW2 a Prequel to MW3?
Yes, in the sense that the events of MWII set the stage for the story of the new MW3. The game directly follows on from MW2. However, they are both in the new rebooted timeline and are not connected to the original MW3 game.
6. Does Modern Warfare 3 Continue the Story of MW2?
Absolutely. The new MW3 directly continues the narrative from the 2022 Modern Warfare 2, bringing the story forward.
7. Are MW2 and MW3 Connected?
Yes, these two games are directly connected, with MW3 acting as a sequel to MW2. In fact, all weapons and blueprints carry over from MW2 to MW3.
8. Why is Soap a Sergeant and Ghost a Lieutenant in the New MW2?
In the original series, Soap was higher-ranking than Ghost. However, in this new timeline, Soap is a Sergeant, while Ghost retains his rank of Lieutenant. This is part of the reimagining of the characters within the new continuity.
9. Who is the Bad Guy in the New MW3?
The main villain in the new Modern Warfare 3 is Vladimir Makarov, an iconic antagonist known from the original series.
10. How Does the New Timeline Impact the Original MW Characters?
The new timeline allows for the reimagining of characters’ backstories and the altering of their fates, allowing a fresh perspective to these already beloved characters.
11. Is MW2 Connected to CoD Ghosts?
No, the new MW2 has no connection to Call of Duty: Ghosts. They exist in separate continuities and have entirely different story lines.
12. Why Does Ghost Wear a Mask?
In both the original and the rebooted series, Ghost wears a mask to protect his identity and maintain anonymity.
13. Who is Simon “Ghost” Riley Based On?
The character Simon “Ghost” Riley is based on his voice actor, Samuel Roukin.
14. Why Did Graves Betray Soap and Ghost?
Graves, initially an ally, betrayed Task Force 141 on Shepherd’s orders, due to the team uncovering the truth about lost ballistic missiles.
15. What Does “Soft Reboot” Mean in the Context of Modern Warfare?
A “soft reboot” means the game shares similarities with the original series, but is not a direct remake or prequel. It tells a new story with familiar themes, characters, and plot elements in a new timeline. It doesn’t completely erase what came before but creates an opportunity to tell the story in a fresh way.
Conclusion
In summary, the new Modern Warfare 2 is not a prequel to the original MW2; it’s a reboot that operates within an alternate timeline. It utilizes familiar elements to create a new narrative, continuing the story established in the 2019 Modern Warfare reboot. It serves as the foundation for Modern Warfare 3, setting the stage for the future of the franchise within this new continuity. Understanding this distinction is key to appreciating the developers’ approach in crafting this new chapter in the Modern Warfare saga.