People often reminisce about the “good old days” of Call of Duty, particularly the era of Black Ops 1, before microtransactions became common. Back then, games launched as complete packages without additional content or cosmetics locked behind paywalls. Some argue that today’s microtransactions—sometimes exceeding $100—feel like a step backward. Let’s compare Call of Duty then and now.
The Black Ops 1 Era: A Snapshot of Gaming in 2010
When Call of Duty: Black Ops 1 launched in 2010, it cost about $60 USD. The game included 14 original maps and several game modes. However, like most games, it wasn’t without issues. Bugs such as seeing through walls or bodies glitching into objects were common and could disrupt gameplay.
At the time, what you bought was all you got. Updates and patches were rare. There were no events or new free content after launch. Paid DLCs (downloadable content) were the only way to get more. Each DLC included three multiplayer maps and one zombie map, sometimes remakes of older maps. They cost about $14.95 USD then, which is around $20.24 USD in today’s currency.
Buying all four DLCs for the full Call of Duty experience would cost about $101 USD in today’s money. For many, this made the true cost of the game much higher than its base price.
The Challenges of Call of Duty DLC in a Global Community
One issue with DLCs, especially in regions like Australia, was that not everyone bought them. This caused problems in filling servers. Players who hadn’t purchased the DLC were kicked when those maps appeared in rotation. As a result, even after spending $60 AUD (equivalent to about $100 AUD today), I rarely got to play the new maps because many others didn’t have them.
Black Ops Today: A New Approach to Content
Fast forward to today, and Call of Duty games have changed significantly. Take a game like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6. Released on October 25, 2024 at $70 USD). It launched with 16 original maps and a new content model. Now, bug fixes, balance changes, and content updates happen regularly and often at no extra cost.
Over the course of a year, today’s Call of Duty games offer six seasons of content. Each season adds about three new maps and two weapons, giving players 18 new maps and 12 new guns annually. These also include perks, events, and playlist updates—all free. This ensures the game stays fresh and engaging throughout the year.
Free Content vs. Microtransactions
Instead of charging for new maps or gameplay content, developers now focus on cosmetics. Players can buy skins, weapon camos, and other visual upgrades. These don’t affect gameplay or give a competitive advantage. Purchasing these items is optional. All core Call of Duty content is still accessible for free.
The Question of Value in Call of Duty
So, what would you prefer? A game like Call of Duty: Black Ops 1, where new maps and weapons required extra payment? Or today’s model, where Call of Duty offers free content, regular updates, and seasonal events supported by optional purchases?
Nostalgia for the past is understandable, but today’s model offers an inclusive experience. It ensures everyone can enjoy new content without dividing the community or needing extra purchases. A game that evolves and improves at no extra cost is hard to beat.
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