Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 skips PS4 for first time, coming to Switch 2

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 launches October 23 on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC and Nintendo Switch 2, according to an Activision livestream reported by Video Games Chronicle. It's the first Modern Warfare entry to skip PS4 and Xbox One entirely, marking a decisive shift to current-generation hardware. The announcement also confirms Call of Duty is coming to Nintendo's unannounced Switch 2 console.

Why is Modern Warfare 4 skipping last-gen consoles?

Infinity Ward describes Modern Warfare 4 as "a new technical benchmark" built exclusively for current-generation hardware. According to Activision, the game leverages advanced processing power that older consoles simply can't handle.

This generational leap follows a broader industry trend. The PlayStation division has been closing studios whilst focusing resources on fewer, more technically ambitious projects. Modern Warfare 4 appears to follow this strategy.

For UAE gamers still on PS4 or Xbox One, this means upgrading to current-gen hardware or missing out entirely. The franchise has supported older consoles for years, making this a significant departure.

What's the campaign about?

Modern Warfare 4's campaign is set in modern-day South Korea during a North Korean invasion. Players control Private Park, a young Korean soldier experiencing combat for the first time, whilst Captain Price returns leading a rogue operation separate from Task Force 141.

"A full-scale invasion erupts in a new theater of war, on the Korean Peninsula, igniting a rapidly escalating crisis unlike anything the franchise has tackled before," Activision states. The story spans global locations including New York, Paris, and Mumbai.

The Korean setting could prove controversial. As one journalist noted to The Guardian, depicting all-out war across the peninsula may resonate differently in the region than with Western audiences.

What's new in multiplayer?

Modern Warfare 4 introduces "Ballistic Authority," Infinity Ward's new weapon system that eliminates random bullet spread. "Bullet trajectory, weapon motion, Operator stance, camera, audio, FOV, and target visibility all line up in one highly tuned combat fidelity system," the developer explains. "Every shot tells the truth."

At launch, players get 12 core 6v6 maps, Gunfight maps, and multiple Big War maps designed for vehicle combat. Kill Block offers a dynamic battleground with over 500 configurations that reshape routes and cover.

The new Gunny system helps players build effective loadouts based on playstyle, whilst two Prestige paths return. "Classic Prestige delivers the traditional reset experience, relocking Create-a-Class progression in exchange for increased XP earn rates," Activision confirms.

Is Nintendo Switch 2 confirmed?

Modern Warfare 4's announcement effectively confirms Nintendo Switch 2 exists, though Nintendo hasn't officially revealed the console. Digital Legends is handling the Switch 2 port, suggesting the platform can handle current-generation Call of Duty.

This marks Call of Duty's return to Nintendo platforms after years of absence. The original Switch couldn't run modern Call of Duty games, but Switch 2 apparently bridges that performance gap.

Nintendo typically announces hardware on its own timeline. Modern Warfare 4's October 23 launch date suggests Switch 2 will be available by then, or the game will launch later on that platform.

Should you upgrade for Modern Warfare 4?

Based on Infinity Ward's technical promises, Modern Warfare 4 represents a genuine generational leap. The Ballistic Authority system, enhanced visuals, and Switch 2 compatibility suggest meaningful improvements over previous entries.

However, the controversial Korean setting and the franchise's recent struggles with player feedback raise questions. Our recommendation depends on whether you value technical advancement over narrative sensitivity.

For UAE players on PS4 or Xbox One, the hardware upgrade cost must factor into your decision. Current-gen consoles are readily available locally, but represent a significant investment beyond the game's price.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 releasing?

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 launches globally on Friday, October 23, 2024, according to Activision's official announcement.

What platforms will Modern Warfare 4 be available on?

Modern Warfare 4 will be available on Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, PC, and Nintendo Switch 2. It's skipping PS4 and Xbox One entirely.

Will Modern Warfare 4 be on PS4 or Xbox One?

No, Modern Warfare 4 will be the first entry in the modern series to skip PS4 and Xbox One, releasing only on current-generation hardware.

What is the campaign setting for Modern Warfare 4?

The campaign is set in modern-day South Korea, depicting a North Korean invasion of the peninsula with missions spanning global locations including New York, Paris, and Mumbai.

What is Nintendo Switch 2?

Nintendo Switch 2 is an unannounced console that Modern Warfare 4 will launch on. Nintendo hasn't officially confirmed the system, but the game's announcement effectively reveals its existence.

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