Call of Duty: Warzone is gearing up for a major shakeup with the return of the iconic Verdansk map in Season 3. Set to launch on April 3, 2025, this update promises to bring significant changes to player movement, aiming to recapture the feel of the game’s early days. Let’s dive into the key movement adjustments and what they mean for Warzone veterans and newcomers alike.
Slowing Down the Pace
The developers at Raven Software have made it clear that Season 3 will dial back some of the speed increases introduced in recent updates. This shift aims to create a more tactical and deliberate gameplay experience, reminiscent of Warzone’s initial release.
Omni-Sprint Adjustments
One of the most noticeable changes will be to the omni-sprint mechanic:
Step 1: Players will find that the overall speed of omni-sprint has been reduced.
Step 2: The acceleration and deceleration rates have been tweaked to feel more gradual.
Step 3: The duration of omni-sprint has been slightly shortened to encourage more strategic movement.
These adjustments should make it harder for players to quickly escape engagements or rush opponents without careful planning.
Slide Mechanics Overhaul
The sliding mechanic, a staple of modern Call of Duty movement, is also getting reworked:
Step 1: Slide initiation speed has been decreased, requiring more momentum to enter a slide.
Step 2: Slide distance has been reduced, limiting the ability to quickly close gaps or evade fire.
Step 3: Friction during slides has been increased, making it easier for opponents to track sliding targets.
These changes aim to make sliding a more situational tactic rather than a constant form of movement.
Preserving Core Mechanics
While many aspects of movement are being adjusted, some core elements of Warzone’s gameplay will remain intact:
Tactical Sprint Retention
The Tactical Sprint, introduced in Modern Warfare 2019, will still be available in Verdansk. This burst of speed can be crucial for crossing open areas or making a quick escape, but its limited duration will require more thoughtful use in the slower-paced environment.
Sprint-Strafe Reloading
The ability to strafe while sprinting and reloading will be maintained, albeit with some tweaks to speed and accuracy. This mechanic allows for continued mobility during firefights but may require more skill to utilize effectively with the new movement parameters.
Impact on Gameplay Strategies
These movement changes are likely to have a significant impact on how players approach Verdansk:
- Positioning will become more critical, as quickly repositioning during firefights will be more challenging.
- Long-range engagements may become more prevalent, as closing distances quickly will be harder.
- Building-to-building combat could see a shift, with players needing to be more cautious when crossing open spaces.
- Snipers might find more success, as targets will be easier to track with reduced movement speed.
Adapting to the New Verdansk
For players looking to succeed in the revamped Verdansk, consider these tips:
- Practice pre-aiming corners and high-traffic areas, as quick reactions will be more valuable than rapid movement.
- Utilize cover more frequently, planning your routes between safe spots.
- Experiment with different weapon loadouts that complement the slower pace, such as LMGs or precision rifles.
- Pay closer attention to the circle and plan your rotations earlier, as quick escapes from the gas will be more difficult.
Balancing Act
Raven Software’s decision to adjust movement mechanics represents a delicate balancing act. The goal is to create a more tactical experience while still maintaining the fast-paced action that Warzone players have come to love. This change could potentially bridge the gap between longtime fans nostalgic for the original Verdansk gameplay and newer players who have become accustomed to the more frenetic recent seasons.
The return to Verdansk in Warzone Season 3 is shaping up to be more than just a map change. These movement adjustments signal a shift in the game’s overall feel and strategy. Whether you’re dropping into Verdansk for the first time or returning to familiar grounds, be prepared for a fresh take on the battle royale experience that started it all.