Is Call of Duty Really an RPG? A Comprehensive Analysis

Call of Duty, the iconic first-person shooter game, has been a staple in the gaming industry for over two decades. But is it an RPG? In recent years, the line between traditional RPGs and first-person shooters has become increasingly blurred, leading to debate over whether Call of Duty can be classified as an RPG. In this article, we will explore the characteristics of both RPGs and Call of Duty, and determine whether the game can be considered an RPG. Join us as we delve into the world of Call of Duty and RPGs, and uncover the truth behind this hotly debated topic.

What is an RPG?

Character progression

• Leveling up

In role-playing games (RPGs), leveling up is a crucial aspect of character progression. It refers to the increase in a character’s effectiveness and power as they gain experience and become more proficient in their abilities. This increase in power can manifest in various ways, such as increased health points, improved abilities, or enhanced attributes.

• Skill trees

Skill trees are another essential element of character progression in RPGs. They represent a visual representation of a character’s abilities and the different paths they can take to develop their skills. Players can choose which skills to unlock and improve, often by allocating points earned through leveling up or completing quests. Skill trees can be classified into two main types: linear and branching. In linear skill trees, players progress through a single path, while branching skill trees offer multiple paths, allowing for more customization and specialization.

• Equipment customization

Equipment customization is another vital aspect of character progression in RPGs. It involves modifying a character’s gear, such as weapons, armor, and trinkets, to enhance their abilities and performance. Customization options can range from adding new features or attributes to changing the appearance of the equipment. Players can often find or purchase new equipment, and some games even allow players to craft their own gear using resources gathered during gameplay.

Overall, character progression in RPGs is a complex system that involves various aspects, such as leveling up, skill trees, and equipment customization. These elements work together to create a sense of growth and development for the player’s character, adding depth and replayability to the game.

Immersive storytelling

When it comes to role-playing games (RPGs), immersive storytelling is a key element that sets them apart from other genres. Immersive storytelling in RPGs involves creating a rich and detailed world, with intricate characters and complex narratives that draw players into the game world. In this section, we will delve deeper into the three key aspects of immersive storytelling in RPGs: rich narratives, complex characters, and moral choices.

Rich Narratives

A rich narrative is the foundation of immersive storytelling in RPGs. The story should be compelling and engaging, with a clear plot and well-developed characters. It should be unique and original, and offer players a chance to explore new worlds and ideas. In many RPGs, the story is what drives players to keep playing, and a rich narrative can help create a sense of immersion and engagement.

Complex Characters

In addition to a rich narrative, complex characters are also an important aspect of immersive storytelling in RPGs. Characters should be well-developed and have their own unique personalities, motivations, and backstories. Players should be able to relate to the characters and feel invested in their stories. Additionally, the interactions between characters should be realistic and believable, adding to the overall immersion of the game world.

Moral Choices

Moral choices are another key aspect of immersive storytelling in RPGs. In many RPGs, players are faced with difficult moral decisions that can impact the outcome of the game. These choices should be meaningful and have a significant impact on the story and characters. Players should feel like their choices matter and that they are actively shaping the world around them. This element of choice and consequence can create a sense of agency and investment in the game world, making the experience more immersive and engaging.

Overall, immersive storytelling is a crucial element of RPGs, and it is what sets them apart from other genres. By creating rich narratives, complex characters, and offering meaningful moral choices, RPGs can transport players to new worlds and offer a truly immersive gaming experience.

Multiplayer aspects

Cooperative gameplay

Cooperative gameplay refers to the aspect of RPGs where players work together towards a common goal. This is achieved through character interactions, group dynamics, and collaborative problem-solving. In the context of multiplayer games, cooperative gameplay often involves working with other players to complete missions or objectives. While Call of Duty does offer multiplayer game modes, its focus is more on competitive gameplay rather than cooperative gameplay.

Role-playing within a party

Role-playing within a party refers to the aspect of RPGs where players take on specific roles within a group, such as a healer, tank, or damage dealer. These roles are typically assigned based on the player’s abilities and equipment. In the context of multiplayer games, role-playing within a party often involves coordinating with other players to ensure the success of the group. While Call of Duty does offer multiplayer game modes, its focus is more on individual skill rather than coordinated team play.

Character-driven content

Character-driven content refers to the aspect of RPGs where players create and customize their characters, often with unique abilities and stats. This aspect of RPGs allows players to immerse themselves in the game world and create a sense of identity for their characters. In the context of multiplayer games, character-driven content often involves creating and customizing a character that is unique to the player. While Call of Duty does offer character customization options, its focus is more on weapon customization rather than character customization.

The Definition of RPG

Classic RPG elements

When it comes to defining what makes a game an RPG, there are several key elements that are typically considered. These elements include exploration, quests, and NPC interactions.

Exploration
One of the defining characteristics of an RPG is the ability to explore the game world. This can include traversing through different environments, discovering hidden paths, and uncovering secrets. In many RPGs, exploration is a key part of the gameplay experience, as it allows players to fully immerse themselves in the game world and uncover its secrets.

Quests
Another classic RPG element is the inclusion of quests. Quests are tasks or missions that players must complete in order to progress through the game. These quests can take many forms, from simple fetch quests to complex, multi-stage missions. In many RPGs, quests are used to drive the game’s narrative forward and provide players with a sense of purpose and direction.

NPC Interactions
Non-Player Characters (NPCs) are another important element of RPGs. NPCs are characters that players can interact with in the game world, and they often play a key role in the game’s story and quests. In many RPGs, NPCs are used to provide players with information, give them side quests, or simply add depth and realism to the game world.

Overall, these classic RPG elements are all designed to create a sense of immersion and depth in the game world. Whether it’s exploring new environments, completing quests, or interacting with NPCs, these elements all work together to create a rich and engaging gameplay experience.

Modern RPG influences

In recent years, the gaming industry has seen a significant rise in the popularity of role-playing games (RPGs). These games have become a staple in the gaming world, offering players a unique and immersive experience. The influence of modern RPGs has spread across various genres, including first-person shooters like Call of Duty.

The first-person shooter genre has traditionally been focused on fast-paced gameplay and multiplayer experiences. However, with the rise of modern RPGs, even genres like FPS have begun to incorporate elements of RPGs into their gameplay. In this section, we will explore the modern RPG influences in Call of Duty and how they impact the game’s overall experience.

Open-world design

One of the most significant influences of modern RPGs on Call of Duty is the open-world design. Open-world games allow players to explore a vast, interactive environment, often with a range of quests, missions, and side-quests to complete. While Call of Duty has always been a linear game, recent installments have begun to incorporate open-world elements.

For example, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare introduced a new mode called “Ground War,” which is a large-scale, team-based mode that takes place in an open-world environment. This mode allows players to explore a vast map, complete objectives, and engage in intense combat. Similarly, Call of Duty: Warzone is a battle royale game that takes place in a large, open-world environment.

Crafting systems

Another influence of modern RPGs on Call of Duty is the inclusion of crafting systems. Crafting systems allow players to create new items and equipment by collecting resources and combining them in different ways. While Call of Duty has never had a traditional crafting system, recent installments have introduced new mechanics that allow players to customize their weapons and equipment.

For example, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare introduced a new weapon customization system that allows players to customize their weapons with different attachments, such as scopes, grips, and magazines. This system allows players to create a unique loadout that suits their playstyle. Similarly, Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War introduced a new system called “Wildcards,” which allows players to unlock new perks and abilities by completing challenges.

Dynamic narratives

Finally, modern RPGs have also influenced the narrative structure of Call of Duty. RPGs often feature complex, branching narratives that are shaped by player choice and action. While Call of Duty has always had a strong narrative focus, recent installments have begun to incorporate more player agency into the story.

For example, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare introduced a new narrative structure called “Operator Missions,” which allow players to take on the role of different characters and complete missions from their perspective. This structure allows players to experience the story from multiple angles and make choices that impact the outcome of the narrative. Similarly, Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War introduced a new mode called “Raids,” which features a multi-part, cinematic narrative that is shaped by player choice and action.

Overall, the influence of modern RPGs on Call of Duty has been significant. From open-world design to crafting systems and dynamic narratives, RPG elements have added a new layer of depth and immersion to the FPS genre. While Call of Duty may not be a traditional RPG, it has certainly embraced many of the genre’s most innovative features.

The Call of Duty Franchise

Overview

The Call of Duty franchise is a popular first-person shooter series that has been around since 2003. The series was created by Infinity Ward and published by Activision. The franchise has become a cultural phenomenon, with millions of players worldwide and billions of dollars in sales.

The first Call of Duty game was released in 2003, and since then, the franchise has expanded to include numerous sequels, spin-offs, and mobile games. The series has also introduced new gameplay mechanics and features over the years, such as multiplayer modes, zombies, and battle royale.

One of the reasons for the franchise’s success is its realistic approach to first-person shooter gameplay. The games are known for their intense and immersive single-player campaigns, which often focus on historical events or fictional military operations. The multiplayer modes also emphasize realism, with players engaging in tactical combat and using authentic weapons and equipment.

However, some gamers and critics have questioned whether Call of Duty can be classified as an RPG. While the series has always had some RPG elements, such as character customization and branching storylines, the emphasis on realism and action has led some to view it as more of a first-person shooter than an RPG.

Mainline games

The Call of Duty franchise has a long and storied history, with the first game being released in 2003. Since then, the franchise has expanded to include a wide variety of mainline games, each with its own unique features and gameplay mechanics. In this section, we will take a closer look at the mainline games in the Call of Duty franchise, including their single-player campaigns and multiplayer modes.

Call of Duty 1-Vanguard

The first five games in the Call of Duty franchise – Call of Duty 1 through Call of Duty 5: World at War – were all developed by Infinity Ward and published by Activision. These games are often referred to as the “original trilogy” of Call of Duty games, and they are set primarily in World War II.

Call of Duty 1, which was released in 2003, was the first game in the franchise and introduced players to the fast-paced, intense gameplay that would become synonymous with the series. The game featured a single-player campaign that followed the story of a soldier named Cpt. Price as he fought his way across Europe during World War II. The game also featured multiplayer modes, which allowed players to engage in intense combat with each other online.

Call of Duty 2, which was released in 2005, built on the success of the first game and featured improved graphics and gameplay mechanics. The game’s single-player campaign followed the story of several different soldiers as they fought their way across Europe during World War II. The game also featured multiplayer modes, which allowed players to engage in intense combat with each other online.

Call of Duty 3, which was released in 2006, was the first game in the franchise to be developed by Treyarch. The game featured a single-player campaign that followed the story of a soldier named Pvt. Martin as he fought his way across Europe during World War II. The game also featured multiplayer modes, which allowed players to engage in intense combat with each other online.

Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare, which was released in 2007, marked a significant departure from the World War II setting of the previous games. The game was developed by Infinity Ward and featured a modern-day setting, with players taking on the role of a member of a secret task force fighting against a terrorist organization. The game’s single-player campaign followed the story of the player character as they fought their way across the world, while the multiplayer modes allowed players to engage in intense combat with each other online.

Call of Duty: World at War, which was released in 2008, was developed by Treyarch and featured a setting that took place during World War II. The game’s single-player campaign followed the story of several different soldiers as they fought their way across the Pacific and Eastern Fronts. The game also featured multiplayer modes, which allowed players to engage in intense combat with each other online.

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2, which was released in 2009, was developed by Infinity Ward and featured a continuation of the story from the previous game. The game’s single-player campaign followed the story of the player character as they fought against a terrorist organization in a variety of different locations around the world. The game also featured multiplayer modes, which allowed players to engage in intense combat with each other online.

Call of Duty: Black Ops, which was released in 2010, was developed by Treyarch and featured a Cold War setting. The game’s single-player campaign followed the story of several different soldiers as they fought their way across different locations around the world. The game also featured multiplayer modes, which allowed players to engage in intense combat with each other online.

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3, which was released in 2011, was developed by Infinity Ward and featured a continuation of the story from the previous games. The game’s single-player campaign followed the story of the player character as they fought against a terrorist organization in a variety of different locations around the world. The game also featured multiplayer modes, which allowed players to engage in intense combat with each other online.

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare

Spin-offs and mobile games

The Call of Duty franchise has expanded beyond its core first-person shooter gameplay with the introduction of spin-offs and mobile games. These games aim to provide unique experiences for players while still retaining the core elements of the Call of Duty franchise.

Call of Duty: Zombies

Call of Duty: Zombies is a cooperative multiplayer game that has been a part of the Call of Duty franchise since 2011. The game features players working together to survive against hordes of zombies. The gameplay is fast-paced and action-packed, with players using a variety of weapons and abilities to take down the undead.

Call of Duty: Mobile

Call of Duty: Mobile is a free-to-play mobile game that was released in 2019. The game features a variety of game modes, including battle royale and team deathmatch, as well as popular maps from previous Call of Duty games. The game has been praised for its smooth controls and fast-paced gameplay, making it a popular choice among mobile gamers.

Call of Duty: Warzone

Call of Duty: Warzone is a battle royale game that was released in 2020. The game is set in the same universe as the Modern Warfare series and features many of the same characters and weapons. Players must scavenge for weapons and equipment while fighting to be the last player or team standing. The game has been praised for its large-scale battles and strategic gameplay, making it a popular choice among Call of Duty fans.

Overall, these spin-offs and mobile games have helped to expand the Call of Duty franchise and provide new experiences for players. While they may not be traditional RPGs, they still offer unique gameplay experiences that are worth exploring for fans of the franchise.

Call of Duty’s RPG Mechanics

Comparing Call of Duty to RPGs

One of the primary mechanics of Role-Playing Games (RPGs) is character progression, where players gain experience points to increase their character’s level and unlock new abilities or skills. Call of Duty also incorporates a similar leveling system, where players earn experience points (XP) by completing missions, killing enemies, and completing objectives. As players level up, they can unlock new weapons, attachments, and perks.

Another characteristic of RPGs is the use of skill trees, where players can choose which skills or abilities to unlock based on their preferred playstyle. Call of Duty has a similar system with its perk system, where players can choose which perks to unlock and equip to their characters. Perks provide players with unique abilities and bonuses, such as increased health, faster reload times, or improved accuracy.

In addition to character progression and skill trees, RPGs often feature weapon customization, where players can modify their weapons to suit their playstyle. Call of Duty also includes weapon customization, where players can attach different scopes, silencers, and other accessories to their weapons. Players can also customize the appearance of their weapons, such as changing the color of the barrel or adding different attachments.

While Call of Duty incorporates several mechanics commonly found in RPGs, it is important to note that the game does not have the same open-world exploration or dialogue systems found in traditional RPGs. Despite this, the game’s emphasis on character progression, skill trees, and weapon customization make it clear that Call of Duty is more than just a simple first-person shooter.

Campaign narratives

Call of Duty’s campaign mode has always been known for its intense, cinematic, and action-packed storytelling. Each game in the series offers a unique campaign experience, taking players through different historical periods and fictional settings. The stories are often character-driven, focusing on the struggles and triumphs of soldiers, resistance fighters, and special operatives as they navigate complex conflicts and face harrowing challenges. The narratives are designed to immerse players in the world of the game, making them feel like they are part of the action.

Characters and dialogue

One of the key elements of immersive storytelling in Call of Duty is the attention to detail given to the game’s characters and dialogue. Each character is carefully crafted with a distinct personality, backstory, and motivations, making them feel like real people. The dialogue is often rich and nuanced, with each character delivering lines that feel authentic to their personality and situation. The voice acting is top-notch, bringing the characters to life and adding depth to the storytelling.

Moral choices and consequences

Call of Duty also incorporates elements of moral choice and consequence into its storytelling, adding a layer of complexity to the narrative. Players are often faced with difficult decisions that have a direct impact on the outcome of the game. For example, in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3, players must make a decision that determines the fate of a character and the direction of the story. These choices add replay value to the game, as players can go back and make different decisions to see how it affects the story. Additionally, the consequences of these choices are often reflected in the game’s ending, adding a sense of consequence to the player’s actions.

Multiplayer RPG elements

Co-op gameplay

Call of Duty’s multiplayer mode has a co-op feature that allows players to team up and complete objectives together. This feature is similar to the cooperative gameplay found in many RPGs, where players work together to defeat enemies and progress through the game. In Call of Duty, players can team up with friends or join a matchmaker to team up with other players. The co-op gameplay in Call of Duty is designed to provide a more immersive and engaging multiplayer experience, and it allows players to work together to achieve a common goal.

Role-playing within a team

In Call of Duty’s multiplayer mode, players can assume different roles within a team to complement each other’s strengths and weaknesses. For example, players can choose to be a medic, who provides health support to teammates, or a sniper, who provides long-range support. These roles are similar to the character classes found in many RPGs, where players choose a character with specific abilities and strengths to play the game. By assuming different roles within a team, players can create a more balanced and effective team that can tackle any challenge.

Player-driven content

Call of Duty’s multiplayer mode also features player-driven content, which allows players to create their own game modes and share them with the community. This feature is similar to the player-driven content found in many RPGs, where players can create their own quests and share them with other players. In Call of Duty, players can create their own game modes using the game’s built-in editor, and they can share them with the community through the game’s social features. This player-driven content allows players to customize their multiplayer experience and adds a new level of depth and replayability to the game.

The RPG Debate

Fans’ perspectives

What makes Call of Duty an RPG

Some fans argue that Call of Duty possesses RPG elements due to its:

• Character progression: Players can level up their characters, unlocking new abilities and equipment.
• Customization: Players can personalize their characters with various skins, weapons, and attachments.
• Narrative depth: The game features a compelling storyline with complex characters and plot twists.
• Multiple endings: Depending on player choices, the story can unfold differently, offering replayability.

Why Call of Duty is not an RPG

Conversely, other fans contend that Call of Duty is not an RPG due to its:

• Lack of open-world exploration: Unlike traditional RPGs, players are confined to linear levels with set objectives.
• Limited character interaction: Characters in Call of Duty do not engage in extensive dialogue or offer branching questlines.
• Realism: The game focuses on simulating real-world military combat, which deviates from the fantastical settings typical of RPGs.
• Skill-based gameplay: Call of Duty emphasizes twitch reflexes and precision, contrasting with the turn-based combat often found in RPGs.

Developers’ views

Call of Duty has been a popular first-person shooter game series for over two decades, with its latest iteration being Call of Duty: Modern Warfare. While some players and critics argue that the game has become more like an RPG, others maintain that it remains a traditional first-person shooter. To understand the debate better, it is essential to examine the views of the game’s developers.

• Inspirations from RPGs

One of the reasons why some people consider Call of Duty to be an RPG is that it has taken inspiration from the RPG genre. For instance, the game features a leveling system, where players earn experience points (XP) to unlock new weapons, perks, and abilities. This system is similar to the one found in RPGs, where players gain experience points to increase their character’s level and unlock new abilities.

Moreover, Call of Duty has also incorporated a narrative-driven campaign, which is a hallmark of the RPG genre. The campaign features a deep and engaging storyline, with well-developed characters and plot twists. Players can also make choices that affect the story’s outcome, similar to the choices available in RPGs.

• Call of Duty’s unique approach

Despite these similarities, Call of Duty’s developers maintain that the game is still a first-person shooter at its core. They argue that the game’s leveling system and narrative-driven campaign are just additions to the traditional gameplay mechanics.

In addition, Call of Duty’s developers have also incorporated features that are unique to the game. For example, the game features a multiplayer mode, where players can compete against each other in various game modes. The game also features a cooperative mode, where players can team up to complete objectives. These features are not typically found in RPGs, but they are essential to the Call of Duty experience.

In conclusion, while Call of Duty has taken inspiration from the RPG genre, its developers maintain that it is still a first-person shooter at its core. The game’s leveling system and narrative-driven campaign are just additions to the traditional gameplay mechanics. Call of Duty’s unique features, such as the multiplayer and cooperative modes, also set it apart from traditional RPGs.

FAQs

1. What is Call of Duty?

Call of Duty is a popular first-person shooter video game franchise that has been around since 2003. The series is known for its fast-paced, action-packed gameplay, realistic warfare, and cinematic storytelling. The games in the series are developed by different studios, but all share a similar gameplay mechanic.

2. What is an RPG?

RPG stands for Role-Playing Game, a type of video game where players assume the role of a character and make decisions that affect the outcome of the game. RPGs typically feature a complex storyline, character development, and customizable characters. Examples of popular RPGs include The Elder Scrolls, Final Fantasy, and World of Warcraft.

3. Is Call of Duty an RPG?

No, Call of Duty is not considered an RPG. While the game does have a single-player campaign mode, it is primarily a first-person shooter game. The game’s focus is on fast-paced, action-packed gameplay, with players engaging in combat against enemy forces. The player does not have the ability to customize their character or make significant choices that affect the storyline.

4. What are some RPG elements in Call of Duty?

While Call of Duty is not considered an RPG, it does have some elements that are common in RPGs. For example, the game has a storyline that unfolds as the player progresses through the single-player campaign mode. The player also has the ability to earn experience points and unlock new weapons and abilities as they progress through the game. Additionally, the game features different playable characters, each with their own unique abilities and weapons.

5. Are there any RPGs similar to Call of Duty?

Yes, there are several RPGs that share similarities with Call of Duty. Games like Battlefield and Halo are also first-person shooter games that feature intense combat and cinematic storytelling. However, these games also have some RPG elements, such as character customization and skill progression. Other games, like Mass Effect and The Witcher, are more traditional RPGs that feature a complex storyline, character development, and customizable characters.

HOW does this RPG not get the KILL?!?!?!