Call of Duty: Vanguard (Ultimate Edition)

Call of Duty: Vanguard (Ultimate Edition) is a special edition of the popular first-person shooter that immerses players in World War II combat across multiple global fronts, including the Pacific, France, Stalingrad, and North Africa. Developed by Sledgehammer Games, it features a gripping single-player campaign, a robust multiplayer mode with over 20 maps, and a new Zombies experience by Treyarch. The Ultimate Edition includes exclusive content such as the Task Force One Pack with operator skins, weapon blueprints, a season battle pass, and additional XP boosts.

Call of Duty: Vanguard (Ultimate Edition): A Comprehensive Review

Introduction

Call of Duty: Vanguard (Ultimate Edition) is a landmark entry in the storied franchise, blending historical World War II combat with modern multiplayer innovation. As the 18th mainline installment in the series, it represents both a return to the franchise’s roots and an ambitious leap into the future of military shooters. Developed by Sledgehammer Games and published by Activision, Vanguard aims to bridge the gap between the gritty realism of WWII and the fast-paced, futuristic action that has defined recent Call of Duty titles. This review will dissect every facet of the game, from its development history to its lasting impact on the industry.

Development History & Context

Studio and Vision

Sledgehammer Games, known for their work on Call of Duty: WWII (2017) and Advanced Warfare (2014), took the reins for Vanguard. The studio aimed to create a game that honored the franchise’s WWII origins while incorporating modern gameplay mechanics. The Ultimate Edition, released on November 5, 2021, included exclusive content such as the Task Force One Pack, a season Battle Pass, and additional weapon blueprints.

Technological Constraints and Gaming Landscape

Vanguard launched during a transitional period for the gaming industry, with the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S introducing next-gen capabilities. The game was designed to be cross-generational, supporting both current and last-gen consoles. This duality presented challenges in optimizing performance and graphics across different hardware. The gaming landscape in 2021 was dominated by live-service models, and Vanguard had to compete with titles like Battlefield 2042 and Halo Infinite, both of which pushed the boundaries of multiplayer experiences.

Narrative & Thematic Deep Dive

Plot and Characters

The campaign follows a squad of soldiers from different theaters of WWII, including the Pacific, North Africa, and Eastern Front. The narrative weaves together their stories, culminating in a mission to uncover a conspiracy involving a secret organization called “The Resistance.” The protagonists include:
– Polina Petrova: A Soviet sniper with a personal vendetta.
– Wade Jackson: An African-American soldier fighting in the Pacific.
– Lucas Riggs: A British SAS operative.
– Arthur Kingsley: A British intelligence officer.
– Franz Weiss: A German soldier turned double agent.

The dialogue and character interactions are serviceable but lack the depth seen in other modern shooters. The overarching plot is engaging but feels secondary to the gameplay, a common critique of Call of Duty campaigns.

Themes

Vanguard explores themes of camaraderie, sacrifice, and the moral complexities of war. The game’s setting allows for a nuanced look at different fronts of WWII, though it occasionally leans into clichés. The inclusion of diverse perspectives, such as Wade Jackson’s experiences as a Black soldier, adds layers to the narrative but is sometimes underdeveloped.

Gameplay Mechanics & Systems

Core Gameplay Loops

Vanguard’s multiplayer retains the series’ signature fast-paced action but introduces new mechanics like the “Combat Pacing” system, which allows players to choose between slower, tactical gameplay or the traditional run-and-gun style. The Ultimate Edition includes exclusive weapons and skins, adding value for dedicated fans.

Combat and Progression

The combat is polished, with tight gunplay and a variety of weapons. The progression system rewards players with unlocks and customization options, though some may find the grind for high-level gear tedious. The inclusion of Zombies mode, developed by Treyarch, offers a fun diversion but feels disconnected from the main experience.

UI and Innovations

The user interface is clean and intuitive, with minimal distractions during gameplay. Innovations like the “Gunsmith” system allow for deep weapon customization, though some players may find the options overwhelming. The Ultimate Edition’s exclusive content, such as the Frontline Weapons Pack, provides additional incentives for players to engage with the game.

World-Building, Art & Sound

Setting and Atmosphere

Vanguard’s world-building is impressive, with meticulously recreated battlefields from WWII. The game’s art direction balances historical accuracy with modern aesthetics, creating a visually striking experience. The Pacific theater, in particular, stands out with its lush jungles and dynamic weather effects.

Visual Direction

The game’s visuals are a highlight, with detailed character models and environments. The next-gen versions take full advantage of the hardware, offering ray-traced lighting and high-resolution textures. The last-gen versions hold up well but lack some of the finer details.

Sound Design

The sound design is top-notch, with immersive audio that enhances the combat experience. The score, composed by the series’ regular composer, complements the action without overpowering it. Voice acting is solid, though some lines feel generic.

Reception & Legacy

Critical and Commercial Reception

At launch, Vanguard received mixed reviews. Critics praised its multiplayer and visuals but criticized its campaign for being forgettable. The Ultimate Edition’s additional content was well-received, though some felt it didn’t justify the premium price. Commercially, the game performed well, benefiting from the franchise’s strong brand recognition.

Influence on Subsequent Games

Vanguard’s innovations, such as the Combat Pacing system, have influenced later entries in the series. Its return to WWII also paved the way for Call of Duty: WWII (2017) and Call of Duty: WWII Remastered. The game’s multiplayer modes continue to be played, though not as extensively as some of its predecessors.

Conclusion

Call of Duty: Vanguard (Ultimate Edition) is a solid entry in the franchise, offering a compelling multiplayer experience and stunning visuals. While its campaign may not leave a lasting impression, the game’s historical setting and innovative mechanics make it a noteworthy addition to the series. Its legacy lies in its ability to bridge the gap between tradition and modernity, setting the stage for future Call of Duty titles. Ultimately, Vanguard is a must-play for fans of the series and a worthy addition to any military shooter collection.