It has been ten and a half years since the original Modern Warfare II released. It shipped with a fun campaign, excellent multiplayer and co-operative focused Spec Ops mode that was a real fan favourite. Unfortunately however, it was the the controversial ‘No Russian’ level that gained the most traction out of the gate. Now, all this time later, the same disappointing articles are being written again.
I commend Activision for going ahead and releasing this remaster in-tact. Films, books and TV shows are allowed to incorporate sensitive material; often without so much as an eyelid being batted. The only way games are going to overcome this is by telling hard-hitting stories over time and having the courage of their convictions. This process is unfortunately slowed by some members of the mainstream games media feeding into such stories for clicks.
As for the remaster itself, what we have here is a stripped down version of the original game. The campaign returns, but the multiplayer is absent, as is Spec Ops. On the surface this may seem disappointing, but it makes perfect sense. Why splinter your audience between the 2019 Modern Warfare game and the beloved multiplayer from Modern Warfare II? Instead Infinity Ward is adding to the suite of maps to continue growing last years game into the definitive online experience.
Pure and simple this remaster let’s you re-live the campaign from the original game, complete with upgraded visuals. It follows Task Force 141 in their hunt for Vladimir Makarov and how the United States Army Rangers aim to stop a Russian invasion. Some Call of Duty campaigns in the past have felt like a bit of an afterthought but this is one I remembered all these years later and playing through it again it definitely stood the test of time.
I mentioned a graphics overhaul earlier. While I wouldn’t put this visuals up on a pedestal alongside last years stellar effort, you can definitely see that some care and attention has went in. The highlight of this is the excellent facial animation which jumps off the screen at you instantly. Infinity Ward should be commended for taking this extra level of care as it adds to the cutscenes a lot. As expected performance is also on point with the game running at a smooth 60fps.
My only real problem with the game is a legacy issue. Back in older Call of Duty games you would reach areas with big shootouts that continuously spawn enemies until you progress past a certain point. Thankfully that has now been put to rest in recent releases, but as this is a remaster and not a remake it rears it’s ugly head. It’s one of the only instances that reminds you of the games age. Aside from that shooting feels sharp and solid by today’s standards.
The trophy list is fun and varied. A mix of story beats and weapon related kills which provide a fun challenge and make you think about approaching the enemy in different ways. I always find a great use of trophies is to make you explore different ways of playing. This does exactly that. Completing the game on veteran, completing every level without dying or reloading a checkpoint (in any difficulty) and finishing a training course under a certain time are likely to be your biggest obstacles on route to the platinum.
Overall Call of Duty Modern Warfare II Campaign remastered is not only a mouthful, it’s great! I enjoy revisiting improved versions of games I loved years ago and I think £19.99 is an excellent budget price as well. If you didn’t play through this the first time around don’t expect the level of polish from last year’s entry to the series, but buckle yourself in for a thrill ride that rarely gives you a moment to breathe!
-Jock
A review code for this product was kindly provided by the publisher. Reviewed on PS4 Pro.
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