Will MW2 Change the Perk System? Exploring the Evolution of Perks in Modern Warfare

The simple answer is no, Modern Warfare II (MW2) will not fundamentally change its perk system. While there have been adjustments and fixes, the core structure of how perks function remains consistent, even as the game transitions into Modern Warfare III (MW3). The unique approach introduced in MW2, where players begin with two Base Perks and earn two more – a Bonus Perk and an Ultimate Perk – during a match, is a system that Activision has largely stuck with. Instead of a radical overhaul, the focus has been on fine-tuning this established mechanic.

The initial introduction of this progressive perk system in MW2 was a significant departure from previous Call of Duty titles that allowed players to select all their perks upfront. The aim was to encourage more strategic gameplay and give a better balance to engagements by controlling when powerful perks were activated. Although this met with mixed reactions, it has remained the foundational structure of perks for the game.

The Evolution of Perks in MW2

The Original MW2 Perk System

In Modern Warfare 2, players did not simply choose three perks as in past titles. Instead, a system was introduced where players begin the match with two Base Perks. Then, as they progress in the game, they are able to unlock a Bonus Perk, followed by an Ultimate Perk. This staged approach was designed to change the dynamics of gameplay over the course of a match.

• Base Perks: These are the perks players start with, offering basic advantages from the get-go.
• Bonus Perks: These are earned mid-match, offering more impactful abilities than base perks.
• Ultimate Perks: These are the most powerful, unlocked later in the game and capable of shifting the tide of battle.

Adjustments, Not Overhauls

While the basic framework hasn’t changed, there have been adjustments. One notable change has been the fixing of the Ghost perk. Initially, the interaction between the Ghost perk, suppressors, and UAVs on the minimap was not working as intended. This was particularly frustrating as Ghost is a crucial perk for many playstyles. The game developers did eventually address and resolve these issues.

The Ghost perk had become frustrating due to it not working effectively. It was found to not operate correctly when a player was actively firing their weapon. Now, it mostly functions as intended and provides a way for players to stay hidden from enemy radar.

Carry Over to Modern Warfare III

It’s important to note that MW2 content is largely carrying over to MW3. This includes weapons, attachments, Operators, and Operator skins. While you’ll need to complete unlock challenges for weapons in MW3, your inventory from MW2 will be mostly intact. This continuity suggests that the perk system in MW3 will likely operate on a similar structure to MW2. This further reinforces the idea that the underlying perk mechanics are stable and will likely persist in the future of the franchise.

Why the Perk System Changed in the First Place

The new perk system in MW2 was not just for the sake of change. There were a couple of key driving factors:

• Pacing and Engagement: The staged perk system was designed to control the flow of the match. The aim was to give a better balance early on, and then to allow for more powerful perks later in the game.
• Aggressive Play: The adjustment that allowed players to get the Ghost perk earlier in matches was intended to support more aggressive players. The original perk system seemed to punish aggression and reward camping.
• Balancing: Overall, the aim was to make a more balanced system where players’ abilities evolved during the match, making for more varied and dynamic gameplay.

Common Misconceptions About the MW2 Perk System

It’s easy to have misconceptions with the perk system given how different it is to the typical Call of Duty set up. Some players may think that the perks are randomly selected as they progress, or that they are earned through a killstreak. However, as explained above, the perks are pre-selected in Perk Packages allowing the player to take greater control over their abilities.

There is no indication that this system will be overhauled, and instead adjustments and rebalances are more likely. This is mainly due to the carryover of all items between MW2 and MW3, as it indicates a desire for continuity rather than a complete reset.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Will my MW2 perks transfer to MW3?

Yes, while the underlying perk system won’t drastically change, the specific perks themselves do not transfer. You will, however, continue to use the same kind of perks, and unlock them the same way. In MW3 you will select Perk Packages in the same way you did in MW2, and perks will unlock as you progress through a match.

2. Is Ghost pointless in MW2?

Ghost was not always the most effective perk. In its initial form in MW2, the perk didn’t always work. This meant that sometimes players using the Ghost perk were still detected by UAVs, making the perk feel worthless. However, the Ghost perk functionality has been fixed. This means that the perk now works as intended, provided the player is not shooting their weapon.

3. Why is Ghost an Ultimate Perk?

Ghost is an Ultimate Perk because of its power to make players undetectable to common radar technologies. Having this level of invisibility is considered game-changing, so making it available only later in a match helps to keep things balanced.

4. What is the best Ultimate Perk in MW2?

While it depends on playstyle, some top-tier Ultimate Perks in MW2 include Quick Fix, Bird’s Eye, and Ghost. These perks offer high-impact benefits for any playstyle.

5. What does the Spotter Perk do in MW2?

The Spotter Perk allows you to see enemy equipment, Field Upgrades, and Killstreaks through walls. It also allows you to hack enemy Claymores, Proximity Mines, C4, and Trophy Systems. It can be extremely helpful for players that are looking to get the jump on the enemy.

6. Can you pick your own perks in MW2?

Yes, but not individually. There are eight preset Perk Packages you can equip to your loadout in MW2. These packages contain a fixed combination of two Base Perks, one Bonus Perk, and one Ultimate Perk.

7. What is the best perk package setup in MW2?

There is no single best set up. However, a popular perk package combination is Double Time – Tracker – Fast Hands – Ghost. This combination works well for an aggressive style of play.

8. Why does Ghost look different in Modern Warfare 2?

Ghost received a redesign in Modern Warfare 2. His classic balaclava was replaced with a skull faceplate sewn onto a tactical cape. While this was supposed to make him look more intimidating, it did not always achieve the desired effect.

9. What is the Overkill perk in MW2?

The Overkill perk allows you to carry a Primary Weapon in your secondary weapon slot. This means that you can essentially carry two primary weapons. This is very useful for players that want a different kind of weapon in a secondary slot.

10. Why is Ghost betrayed?

In the MW lore, Shepherd betrays Ghost and his team. This is primarily because he wants to take credit for killing Makarov. He does this in order to try and become a hero.

11. What is the significance of Ghost’s mask?

Ghost’s mask is designed to hide his identity. This works to emphasise that the character of Ghost is not intended to be a real person. Instead, he is an identity given to undercover operatives.

12. What is the best ultimate perk?

While it depends on the player, a strong ultimate perk can make a big difference. In MW2 the top picks are Ghost, Quick Fix and Bird’s Eye. However, depending on playstyle other perks like High Alert, Overclock and Survivor are just as effective.

13. Why does Soap call Ghost “lt”?

Soap calls Ghost “Lt” as during the original MW2, Soap was of a higher rank than Ghost. He was a Captain, while Ghost was a Lieutenant. However in MWII their ranks were reversed, however this has not stopped Soap calling Ghost “Lt”.

14. Will DMZ be in MW3?

No, DMZ will not be part of MW3. While its core mechanics are being adopted into Zombies mode, DMZ itself will not carry forward into the new game.

15. Are suppressors effective in DMZ?

Yes, suppressors are very effective in DMZ. They significantly reduce the AI’s ability to detect you. This can make solo play considerably easier.

Conclusion

While Modern Warfare II’s perk system might not have been perfect upon release, the fundamental structure will not be changing in any significant way as it transitions to MW3. What has been done is more about refinement and balancing. Players can expect to continue navigating the staged perk system that has become a defining feature of the game. Instead of a major shift, the focus will likely remain on tweaking and adjusting the system to provide the best experience. As the franchise evolves into MW3, the core principles of this unique perk system look set to stay.