Will Call of Duty Gulf War Have Zombies?

The Call of Duty (CoD) franchise, developed by Activision, has been one of the most influential and enduring series in the history of video games. With its inception in 2003, the franchise has explored various historical periods, contemporary warfare, and futuristic battlegrounds. One of the recurring and beloved features in several CoD games is the Zombies mode. This mode, introduced in Call of Duty: World at War (2008), has become a staple, delighting fans with its cooperative gameplay and unique storyline. With rumors and speculations about a potential new installment set during the Gulf War, the question arises: Will Call of Duty Gulf War include a Zombies mode? This article delves into the history of Zombies in Call of Duty, the potential narrative and gameplay implications of a Gulf War setting, and the feasibility of integrating Zombies into this historical context.

History of Zombies in Call of Duty

• Introduction of Zombies Mode

The Zombies mode first appeared as a hidden bonus in Call of Duty: World at War. It quickly gained popularity due to its engaging cooperative gameplay, where players fought against waves of undead enemies. Set in various wartime locations, the mode allowed players to explore a darker, supernatural side of the game’s universe.

• Evolution and Popularity

Following its success, Zombies mode became a regular feature in the Black Ops series, developed by Treyarch. Each iteration introduced new maps, characters, and storylines, expanding the lore and complexity. The mode’s popularity was further boosted by the addition of Easter eggs, intricate puzzles, and a deep narrative connecting different maps and games.

• Zombies in Modern and Futuristic Settings

While initially set in World War II, Zombies mode has transcended its origins, appearing in modern and futuristic settings. For instance, Call of Duty: Black Ops III featured a time-traveling storyline, blending various historical periods and science fiction elements. This flexibility in narrative and setting has allowed the mode to remain fresh and engaging across different game releases.

The Gulf War: A New Setting

• Historical Context

The Gulf War, also known as Operation Desert Storm, took place between 1990 and 1991. It was a conflict waged by coalition forces from 35 nations led by the United States against Iraq in response to Iraq’s invasion and annexation of Kuwait. The war is characterized by its rapid and technologically advanced military operations, marking a significant moment in modern warfare history.

• Potential for Storytelling

Setting a Call of Duty game during the Gulf War offers rich storytelling opportunities. The conflict’s geopolitical complexities, advanced weaponry, and diverse combat scenarios provide a fertile ground for a compelling narrative. The inclusion of real-world locations such as Kuwait, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia can enhance the game’s authenticity and immersive experience.

• Challenges of Integrating Zombies

Incorporating Zombies into a Gulf War setting presents unique challenges. The historical and realistic backdrop of the conflict contrasts sharply with the fantastical elements of a Zombies mode. Balancing the authenticity of the Gulf War with the supernatural aspects of Zombies would require careful narrative and gameplay design.

Narrative Integration

Possible Storylines

• Secret Experiments and Bio-Weapons: One plausible storyline could involve secret biological experiments conducted by either the coalition forces or Iraqi scientists. These experiments could go awry, resulting in the creation of a zombie outbreak. This scenario aligns with the covert operations and clandestine nature of certain military activities during the Gulf War.
• Ancient Curses and Mysticism: Another narrative approach could involve the discovery of ancient artifacts or curses in the Middle Eastern deserts. Unearthing such relics could trigger a supernatural event, leading to a zombie infestation. This storyline can draw inspiration from regional folklore and legends, adding a layer of cultural depth to the game.
• Alternate History: The game could explore an alternate history where the Gulf War escalates into a global conflict involving zombies. This “what-if” scenario would allow developers to creatively blend historical events with fictional elements, providing a unique and engaging experience for players.

Character Development

Integrating Zombies into a Gulf War setting would require well-developed characters to drive the narrative. These characters could be a mix of soldiers, scientists, and local civilians, each with unique backstories and motivations. Their interactions and evolving relationships amidst the chaos of a zombie outbreak would add emotional depth and complexity to the storyline.

Maintaining Respect for Real Events

It is crucial to handle the historical aspects of the Gulf War with respect and sensitivity. While Zombies mode introduces a fictional element, the portrayal of real-world events and locations should be done thoughtfully to avoid trivializing the conflict and its impact on those involved.

Gameplay Mechanics

Adapting Traditional Zombies Gameplay

The core gameplay mechanics of Zombies mode, such as wave-based combat, resource management, and cooperative play, can be adapted to a Gulf War setting. Players would fight against increasingly difficult waves of zombies, using period-appropriate weapons and equipment.

New Features and Innovations

• Desert Environment: The Gulf War’s desert environment can introduce new gameplay dynamics, such as sandstorms that impair visibility and affect movement. Navigating through vast, open landscapes and abandoned military bases would create a unique atmosphere and strategic challenges.
• Vehicle Combat: Given the importance of armored vehicles and helicopters during the Gulf War, incorporating vehicle combat into Zombies mode could add a new layer of gameplay. Players could use tanks and Humvees to mow down hordes of zombies or escape overwhelming situations.
• Dynamic Weather and Day-Night Cycle: Introducing a dynamic weather system and day-night cycle can enhance the immersive experience. Nighttime gameplay could be more challenging, with limited visibility and more aggressive zombies, while daytime offers better visibility but increased risk of exposure.

Cooperative and Competitive Modes

Maintaining the cooperative nature of Zombies mode is essential, as it encourages teamwork and strategic planning. Additionally, competitive modes, such as player-versus-player-versus-zombies (PvPvZ), could be introduced, where players compete against each other while also dealing with zombie threats.

Potential Impact on the Franchise

Expanding the Fanbase

Introducing a Zombies mode in a Gulf War setting could attract both long-time fans of the franchise and new players interested in this historical period. The blend of real-world events and supernatural elements would offer a fresh take on the well-loved Zombies mode.

Revitalizing the Franchise

The Call of Duty series has faced criticism for perceived stagnation and repetitive gameplay. A bold move, such as integrating Zombies into a Gulf War setting, could revitalize the franchise by offering something new and unexpected. This innovation could set a precedent for future games to explore other historical conflicts with a supernatural twist.

Balancing Tradition and Innovation

While innovation is essential, it is equally important to preserve the core elements that have made Zombies mode a success. Balancing new features with traditional gameplay mechanics will be key to satisfying both veteran players and newcomers.

Conclusion

The possibility of a Zombies mode in a Call of Duty game set during the Gulf War presents an intriguing blend of historical realism and supernatural fiction. By carefully crafting a compelling narrative, innovative gameplay mechanics, and respectful representation of real-world events, the developers could create a unique and engaging experience for players. This integration could expand the franchise's appeal, offering fresh and exciting content while honoring the legacy of one of gaming’s most beloved series.

As the gaming industry continues to evolve, the fusion of different genres and historical periods remains a powerful tool for storytelling and innovation. Whether or not Call of Duty Gulf War will feature Zombies remains to be seen, but the potential for such a combination promises an exciting future for the franchise.