Call of Duty: Black Ops II, which debuted in 2012 for PC, PlayStation 3, and Xbox 360 has amassed a devoted following, as evidenced by a petition on Change.org that has gained significant momentum with over 40,000 signatures and counting.
Fans are eagerly pushing for a remastered version of this beloved game.
Call of Duty: Black Ops II offered players an immersive experience by presenting two interconnected timelines—the late 1980s and the futuristic 2025—featuring protagonists Alex Mason and Frank Woods.
This unique approach, combined with the inclusion of player choices leading to multiple endings, added depth and replayability to the game. Although Black Ops II garnered a loyal fan base, the reception on Metacritic was polarizing, with critics awarding it a respectable score of 83, while users on Xbox 360 rated it a mere 5.4.
The Groundswell of Support:
An ardent fan named Ethan Walker took it upon himself to launch a petition on Change.org, advocating for the remastering of Call of Duty: Black Ops II. Walker draws inspiration from the success of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare Remastered, a project that revived the classic title in 2016 for PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One.
The petition not only calls for a remastered campaign and multiplayer experience but also suggests incorporating maps from both the original Black Ops and Black Ops III, along with the highly popular Zombies mode.
Ethan Walker argues that if Activision, the publisher of Call of Duty, were to heed the fans’ demand and embark on the remastering of Black Ops II, it would undoubtedly translate into a lucrative venture.
The existing fan base, coupled with the introduction of enhanced graphics and gameplay, would attract both old and new players alike. The nostalgia factor associated with the game, combined with its compelling narrative and engaging multiplayer modes, could create a winning formula for Activision.
The Uncertain Road Ahead
While the petition has gained considerable traction, the actual realization of a remastered version of Call of Duty: Black Ops II remains uncertain. Activision, as the ultimate decision-maker, holds the fate of this much-desired project in their hands.
While the success of the petition demonstrates the demand and enthusiasm among fans, whether or not the publisher chooses to act upon it is yet to be seen.
Regardless, the passion and dedication exhibited by the community stand as a testament to the lasting impact and fond memories associated with Black Ops II.
Looking ahead, speculation suggests that the upcoming installment of the Call of Duty franchise, slated for release in 2023, may be a reboot of Modern Warfare 3. If these rumors hold true, players can anticipate the return of a notorious villain, further fueling excitement and anticipation within the gaming community.
While fans eagerly await official announcements, the enduring legacy of Call of Duty: Black Ops II serves as a reminder of the profound impact that games can have on players, transcending time and sparking a sense of nostalgia.
Call of Duty: Black Ops II has etched its name in the annals of gaming history, captivating fans with its innovative gameplay and enthralling narrative.