How to Play the Call of Duty Series in Order?

The Call of Duty (CoD) series is one of the most popular and influential franchises in the gaming industry. With numerous titles released since its inception in 2003, the series has evolved significantly, featuring diverse settings from World War II to futuristic warfare. For new players or fans looking to revisit the series in a coherent manner, understanding the chronological order of the games can enhance the experience. This article will guide you through playing the Call of Duty series in order, covering the main games and offering tips for each installment.

1. Call of Duty (2003)

Setting: World War II

Platforms: PC, Mac, Xbox 360 (via Xbox Live Arcade)

The original Call of Duty introduces players to World War II from multiple perspectives, including American, British, and Soviet soldiers. It set the foundation for the series with its cinematic gameplay and intense combat scenarios.

Tips:

• Focus on cover and use iron sights for better accuracy.
• Pay attention to squad commands; your AI companions can provide useful support.

2. Call of Duty 2 (2005)

Setting: World War II

Platforms: PC, Mac, Xbox 360

Building on the success of its predecessor, Call of Duty 2 offers more polished gameplay and graphics. It features major WWII battles, including the North African campaign and the D-Day invasion.

Tips:

• Smoke grenades are crucial for providing cover in open battlefields.
• Keep an eye on the minimap for enemy positions and objectives.

3. Call of Duty 3 (2006)

Setting: World War II

Platforms: PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, Xbox, Xbox 360, Wii

This installment focuses on the Normandy Breakout and includes multiple perspectives from different Allied forces. The game was the first in the series to introduce a more immersive hand-to-hand combat system.

Tips:

• Use environmental objects for cover during intense firefights.
• Engage in melee combat only when necessary; conserving ammunition is key.

4. Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare (2007)

Setting: Modern day

Platforms: PC, Mac, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Wii

Modern Warfare marks a significant shift in the series, moving away from WWII to contemporary conflicts. The game introduces iconic characters like Captain Price and Soap MacTavish.

Tips:

• Utilize the advanced weaponry and gadgets available, such as night-vision goggles and laser sights.
• Master the use of killstreaks in multiplayer for tactical advantages.

5. Call of Duty: World at War (2008)

Setting: World War II

Platforms: PC, Mac, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Wii

Returning to WWII, World at War introduces the brutal Pacific Theater and the Eastern Front. The game is known for its gritty portrayal of war and the introduction of the Zombies mode.

Tips:

• Flamethrowers are effective against entrenched enemies and bunkers.
• In Zombies mode, always keep moving and strategize with teammates.

6. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 (2009)

Setting: Modern day

Platforms: PC, Mac, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360

A direct sequel to Modern Warfare, this game continues the story of the fight against ultranationalist forces. It’s known for its high-octane action sequences and the controversial "No Russian" mission.

Tips:

• Use heartbeat sensors to detect enemies through walls.
• Take advantage of tactical nukes in multiplayer for massive impact.

7. Call of Duty: Black Ops (2010)

Setting: Cold War

Platforms: PC, Mac, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Wii

Black Ops explores covert operations during the Cold War, featuring a story that delves into mind control and espionage. The game also expands the Zombies mode with new maps and challenges.

Tips:

• Utilize stealth tactics and suppressed weapons during covert missions.
• Work together with your team to complete Zombies Easter eggs for bonuses.

8. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 (2011)

Setting: Modern day

Platforms: PC, Mac, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Wii

The final installment in the Modern Warfare trilogy, this game concludes the epic battle against Makarov and his forces. The game features large-scale battles across various global locations.

Tips:

• Use cover effectively during intense urban combat scenarios.
• Familiarize yourself with different multiplayer modes and maps for better performance.

9. Call of Duty: Black Ops II (2012)

Setting: Cold War and future

Platforms: PC, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Wii U

Black Ops II features a dual timeline, with missions set in both the late 20th century and the year 2025. The game introduces branching storylines and multiple endings based on player choices.

Tips:

• Pay attention to choices during the campaign to influence the outcome.
• Experiment with futuristic weapons and attachments for new gameplay strategies.

10. Call of Duty: Ghosts (2013)

Setting: Near-future

Platforms: PC, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Wii U

Ghosts takes place in a post-apocalyptic near-future where the United States is under attack from a coalition of South American nations. The game introduces a new squad-based gameplay mechanic.

Tips:

• Utilize the Riley the dog companion for reconnaissance and attacks.
• In multiplayer, make use of the new dynamic map events to your advantage.

11. Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare (2014)

Setting: Future

Platforms: PC, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, Xbox One

Set in the mid-21st century, Advanced Warfare introduces exoskeletons and advanced technology, offering new gameplay mechanics such as enhanced mobility and specialized abilities.

Tips:

• Master the exo movements like boost jumps and dodges for better combat maneuvering.
• Experiment with different exo abilities and perks to find your ideal playstyle.

12. Call of Duty: Black Ops III (2015)

Setting: Future

Platforms: PC, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, Xbox One

Black Ops III continues the futuristic trend, exploring themes of cybernetics and AI. The game features a cooperative campaign and an expanded Zombies mode with a deep narrative.

Tips:

• Use cyber core abilities to gain an edge in combat situations.
• Explore the Shadows of Evil map in Zombies for hidden secrets and power-ups.

13. Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare (2016)

Setting: Distant future

Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One

Infinite Warfare takes the series into space, featuring zero-gravity combat and space battles. The campaign focuses on the conflict between the United Nations Space Alliance and the Settlement Defense Front.

Tips:

• Utilize the grappling hook in zero-gravity environments for mobility.
• In multiplayer, take advantage of the new combat rigs to suit different playstyles.

14. Call of Duty: WWII (2017)

Setting: World War II

Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One

Returning to its roots, WWII offers a grounded portrayal of the war, focusing on the European theater. The game features a new War mode and a narrative-driven Zombies campaign.

Tips:

• Use teamwork and communication in War mode to complete objectives.
• In the campaign, pay attention to squad abilities like providing ammo and health.

15. Call of Duty: Black Ops 4 (2018)

Setting: Near-future

Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One

Black Ops 4 forgoes a traditional single-player campaign, instead offering a robust multiplayer experience, including a battle royale mode called Blackout. The game also features an expansive Zombies mode.

Tips:

• Familiarize yourself with the different Specialists and their abilities in multiplayer.
• In Blackout, use the environment and vehicles to gain tactical advantages.

16. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare (2019)

Setting: Modern day

Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One

A reimagining of the Modern Warfare series, this game offers a new story with familiar characters like Captain Price. It features a more realistic and gritty portrayal of modern conflicts.

Tips:

• Use the new Gunsmith feature to customize weapons to your preference.
• Engage in the Ground War mode for large-scale battles and strategic gameplay.

17. Call of Duty: Warzone (2020)

Setting: Modern day

Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S

Warzone is a free-to-play battle royale mode that integrates with Modern Warfare and later titles. It features massive multiplayer matches with up to 150 players.

Tips:

• Utilize contracts to gain money and buy equipment or revive teammates.
• Keep moving and use vehicles to stay ahead of the closing gas circle.

18. Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War (2020)

Setting: Cold War

Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S

Black Ops Cold War returns to the Cold War era, serving as a direct sequel to the original Black Ops. It features a branching narrative and ties into the Warzone storyline.

Tips:

• Experiment with different choices in the campaign to see multiple endings.
• In multiplayer, use the Field Upgrades to gain strategic advantages.

19. Call of Duty: Vanguard (2021)

Setting: World War II

Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S

Vanguard revisits WWII, focusing on the formation of special forces units across different theaters of war. The game integrates with Warzone and features an interconnected narrative with the Zombies mode.

Tips:

• Use the diverse roster of characters and their unique abilities in multiplayer.
• Explore the new Zombies maps for hidden secrets and powerful weapons.

20. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II (2022)

Setting: Modern day

Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S

A sequel to the 2019 Modern Warfare reboot, this game continues the story of Task Force 141. It introduces new gameplay mechanics and a more immersive campaign experience.

Tips:

• Utilize the new mechanics like swimming and mounting weapons for tactical gameplay.
• Engage in Spec Ops missions for cooperative challenges and rewards.

Conclusion

Playing the Call of Duty series in order provides a comprehensive view of the franchise’s evolution, from its World War II origins to its modern and futuristic settings. Each game offers unique gameplay mechanics, stories, and experiences, making the journey through the series both nostalgic and exhilarating. Whether you’re revisiting old favorites or discovering the series for the first time, following this chronological guide will ensure you get the most out of each installment. Happy gaming!