Activision has verified that an upcoming installment in the Call of Duty franchise will debut an entirely brand-new sub-franchise. This development represents a significant change for the enduring shooter franchise, which has leaned heavily on the Black Ops and Modern Warfare brands in recent years.
According to Activision Chief Marketing Officer Tyler Bahl, the company has already established the foundation for this new venture. He characterized it as a fresh sub-franchise instead of a standalone title, signaling that Activision intends to establish a durable new pillar for the property.
A break from familiar brands
This forthcoming title will not be part of Black Ops, Modern Warfare, or any other existing Call of Duty sub-series. Activision has yet to disclose the game’s title, storyline, setting, or launch date.
This announcement comes after years of the franchise rotating between Black Ops and Modern Warfare releases. Launching a new sub-franchise provides the publisher with an opportunity to showcase new characters, narratives, multiplayer concepts, and gameplay mechanics. While Activision has not formally provided a release window, prominent Call of Duty insider CharlieIntel indicates that the new sub-franchise will arrive in 2027, with Sledgehammer Games heading development.
The same report states, “The game will use a modern setting. It is also expected to emphasise movement mechanics, although it will not include jetpacks. These details remain unconfirmed by Activision.”
Why the Shift Matters
Although Call of Duty stands as one of the largest gaming franchises globally, the frequent release of entries within the same familiar sub-series has sparked worries regarding creative fatigue. Establishing a new branch permits Activision to revitalize the series while keeping its primary first-person-shooter fanbase engaged.
Furthermore, this strategy can assist Activision in distinguishing future annual releases. Rather than stretching Modern Warfare or Black Ops out indefinitely, the publisher can cultivate distinct stories, gameplay identities, and overarching characters underneath the wider Call of Duty umbrella.
Also Read: Call of Duty Black Ops 7 x DOOM: How to Get the New Crossover Rewards
