The development team behind Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 Zombies is focusing on enhancing the decision-making elements of gameplay, particularly in the early stages. Drawing inspiration from the classic TranZit map, the new gameplay mechanics introduce a sense of commitment to players’ choices. Unlike recent Zombies maps, which offered a more open and accessible design allowing players to spread out and regroup, Black Ops 7 Zombies emphasizes a more structured approach. When players board the vehicle dubbed Ol’ Tessie, they are faced with crucial decisions—should they take a left or a right path? Should they attempt to hold their ground against incoming zombies or keep moving forward?
My experience during the Call of Duty: Next event showcased these new mechanics firsthand. In the Dark Aether, our team had upgraded Ol’ Tessie with T.E.D.D. and soon arrived at a critical junction. Our indecision proved costly as we were quickly surrounded by zombies, highlighting the importance of making timely choices. Another critical aspect of gameplay is the vulnerability of Ol’ Tessie; early in the game, it cannot withstand much damage. This serves as an important reminder for players: while it may be exhilarating to run over zombies, maintaining the vehicle’s condition is vital.
Drew, a spokesperson for the team, emphasized the effort put into balancing the game, noting that players will have plenty of opportunities to maintain Tessie and ensure it remains in top shape for their journey through the undead apocalypse. This upcoming installment promises to combine intense action with strategic decision-making, aiming to create a deep, immersive experience for players. With these innovative changes, players can look forward to a Zombies experience that feels fresh and engaging while requiring thoughtful gameplay.