Call of Duty's Blackout Returns

The original Blackout mode launched with *Call of Duty: Black Ops 4* in 2018, marking the franchise's first foray into the battle royale genre. It replaced the traditional single-player campaign, a move that proved divisive among players. The mode was developer Treyarch's answer to the growing popularity of games like *PUBG* and *Fortnite*. Blackout's player count was a point of frequent adjustment during its initial run. The beta started with 80 players, was later increased to 88, and eventually offered playlists with up to 100 players. This differed from the later *Warzone*, which launched with 150-player lobbies. Gameplay in the original Blackout was a more "pure" battle royale experience compared to what *Warzone* would become. Players had to scavenge for all weapons, attachments, and gear, as there were no custom loadouts or buy stations to purchase equipment and killstreaks. When a player was eliminated, there was no Gulag or redeployment system, making survival paramount. The new "Black Ops Royale" mode will not feature custom loadouts, the Gulag, or buy stations, staying true to its inspiration. It will support up to 100 players in squads of four on the Avalon map. Classic Blackout equipment like the Grappling Hook, Sensor Dart, and Trauma Kits are set to return. While reviving the classic formula, "Black Ops Royale" introduces new mechanics. A key feature is the ability to find and upgrade weapons through five tiers of rarity, enhancing their fixed attachments. Players will also contend with "Cradle Breaches," zones shrouded in red gas that spawn zombie hordes and hide high-tier loot. Unlike the original Blackout, this new iteration will integrate directly with *Call of Duty: Warzone* and *Black Ops 7* progression systems. Though there is no Gulag, players will have opportunities to return to the fight by finding a Redeploy Token or having teammates activate a Redeployment Tower.