Call of Duty Modern Warfare 2: Release date, platforms, trailers, everything we know

Call of Duty 2022: Modern Warfare 2 is fast approaching and we’ve got a full look at all there is to know. From a release date to upcoming game modes and even campaign details, here’s a rundown of every early detail.

Each and every year, one thing has long been a given in the gaming industry: A new Call of Duty title will be released. While that trend may finally be nearing its end, 2022 is still business as usual for the franchise. Following on from Vanguard by Sledgehammer Games, it’s Infinity Ward’s turn once again this year.

Given that the CoD series is seemingly taking a rare year off in 2023 when it comes to the mainline release, the pressure is really on 2022’s game. Not only to deliver in the short term but to also keep players satisfied during the break.

From an expansive multiplayer offering and a globetrotting campaign, to brand new combat mechanics and gameplay changes, there’s plenty to look forward to.

Here’s everything you need to know about Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2.

---

Contents

• CoD 2022: Modern Warfare 2 release date
• CoD 2022: Modern Warfare 2 platforms
• CoD 2022: Modern Warfare 2 Beta
• CoD 2022: Modern Warfare 2 trailers
• CoD 2022: Modern Warfare 2 logo reveal
• CoD 2022: Modern Warfare 2 editions & pre-orders
• CoD 2022: Modern Warfare 2 campaign details
• Will there be a Zombies mode in Modern Warfare 2?
• CoD 2022: Modern Warfare 2 modes
• CoD 2022: Modern Warfare 2 maps
• Equipment, Field Upgrades, & Killstreaks
• New Modern Warfare 2 Gunsmith
• CoD 2022: Modern Warfare 2 leaks
• CoD 2022: Warzone integration

---

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 2022 release date

Modern Warfare 2 will finally launch in full on Friday, October 28, 2022. This continues the annual trend of new CoD titles releasing in the final quarter of the year.

As usual, players will likely be able to pre-load digital versions of the game before jumping in right away as Modern Warfare 2 unlocks around the globe.

Here is a map featuring all of the global launch times.

See the latest Call Of Duty deals here.

This year comes with a unique opportunity for early access. As announced on August 16, those that pre-order digitally can experience the campaign a week ahead of launch, from October 22. This means dedicated players can finish their run through the latest storyline before jumping over to the multiplayer component on October 28.

Call of Duty 2022: Modern Warfare 2 platforms

Modern Warfare 2 is officially set to release across PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X | S, Battle.Net, and Steam.

From FPS boosts to improved graphics, new-gen versions are obviously more capable than last-gen builds. While yet to be confirmed, it’s also worth noting that previous-gen versions may come with one distinction: leakers have implied Modern Warfare 2 could ship on multiple discs for the PS4 and Xbox One versions.

Moreover, prominent Call of Duty insider Tom Henderson has suggested this may be the last title supported on previous generation consoles.

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 2022 Beta

Continuing the yearly tradition, Modern Warfare 2 promoted an Open Beta period ahead of its full release. As usual, PlayStation got in first with an exclusive weekend of early access, while players across PC and Xbox could jump in over the following week.

Below is a look at all of the Modern Warfare 2 Beta dates throughout September:

• Weekend One (PlayStation Exclusive)
  • Sep 16-17 (Early Access)
  • Sep 18-20 (Open Beta)
• Weekend Two (All Platforms – Crossplay Beta)
  • Sep 22-23 (Early Access)
  • Sep 24-26 (Open Beta)

By pre-ordering any edition of Modern Warfare 2 on any platform, fans could guarantee early access to the multiplayer Beta.

For a full rundown on the test period, be sure to brush up on our full Modern Warfare 2 Beta guide.

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 2022 trailers

Reveal Trailer

After months of anticipation, the reveal trailer for Modern Warfare 2 was finally revealed on June 8 following a handful of early teasers.

Mith Metallica blaring in the background, this reveal trailer provided our first look at Modern Warfare 2’s campaign in action. Throughout, we see members of Task Force 141 carrying out a range of operations around the world.

From intense action-driven setpieces to the more stealth-based night missions we’ve seen in previous entries, a wide variety of combat opportunities were present in the trailer.

Dark Water Level Gameplay Trailer

Next up came a deep dive into the Dark Water campaign mission during Summer Game Fest 2022.

Set on an oil rig in the Gulf of Mexico, this mission showcased Task Force 141 in action as they methodically took control of the site, swiftly eliminating any foes that stood in their way.

Marina Bay Grand Prix Flythrough

During the CDL Champs 2022 event, fans got a first look at the Marina Bay Grand Prix map. While full multiplayer gameplay was still yet to come, this brief glimpse shared an overview of one key 6v6 map on the way.

Before long, however, any mention of this particular map was erased. All promotional material vanished from Activision’s official channels, leading many to speculate the map was removed altogether. A leak revealed Grand Prix is coming back to the game for launch.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iGIwZOC7hTU&ab_channel=CallofDuty

Multiplayer Reveal Trailer

Accompanied by the classic Smashing Pumpkins song, Bullet with Butterfly Wings, Modern Warfare 2’s multiplayer reveal trailer showed off gameplay from Warzone 2 and multiplayer. The trailer provided insight into new features coming and the game’s different locations.

https://youtu.be/tnsOrbljnK0

Call of Duty 2022: Modern Warfare 2 logo reveal

Our first official reveal of CoD 2022 hit social media on April 28. Infinity Ward shared the official logo for its upcoming release, confirming the title of Modern Warfare 2 in the process.

Given the title is a direct sequel to 2019’s Modern Warfare, the logo bears resemblance to the previous ‘MW’ style. This time around, to help distinguish from the 2009 game with the same name, roman numerals feature in the logo, rather than the standard ‘2.’

Modern Warfare 2 editions & how to pre-order

Modern Warfare 2 is set to launch with two separate editions. The Standard Edition will run you $70, while the Vault Edition comes in at $109.99.

Pre-ordering either guarantees access to the upcoming Beta, while the Vault Edition also brings a range of exclusive goodies as listed below:

• Red Team 141 Operator pack
• 4 Operators: Ghost, Soap, Farah, and Price
• FJX Cinder – First-Ever Weapon Vault
• Battle Pass (1 Season) + 50 Tier skips

For more on how to pre-order Modern Warfare 2, be sure to check out our full guide here.

Call of Duty 2022: Modern Warfare 2 campaign details

As a direct follow-up to Modern Warfare (2019), Modern Warfare 2 focuses on the now-assembled Task Force 141 comprised of Price, John ‘Soap’ MacTavish, Simon ‘Ghost’ Riley, Kyle ‘Gaz’ Garrick, and Kate Laswell.

Throughout the single-player experience, we’ll be jumping into the shoes of these different characters as they take the fight around the world. From the first explosive mission as Soap to a more stealthy second level as Gaz, we’re sure to go through a range of distinct encounters.

We also know to expect more advanced vehicular combat than anything seen thus far in the franchise. Whether it’s repairing damaged trucks or climbing out onto the roof of a car, gameplay is set to be more chaotic than ever.

Moreover, in a first for the series, players will be able to access the full Modern Warfare 2 campaign a week out from the game’s official launch. Just by pre-ordering digitally on any given platform, you can experience the new narrative from October 22 and blitz through the story in no time.

While not yet official, it also appears fans can expect more from the single-player experience over time. Beyond the full campaign at launch, it seems DLC will look to further expand the narrative post-launch, though the scope of this content remains to be seen. We could get anything from a handful of bonus missions to another full-fledged story in 2023.

Will there be a Zombies mode in Modern Warfare 2?

Quickly putting an end to any speculation, Infinity Ward devs have made clear that Modern Warfare 2 will not feature a Zombies component.

“There will be no Zombies,” devs confirmed in conversation with VentureBeat.

From traditional round-based modes to the controversial Der Anfang experience in Vanguard, Zombies fans have run the gamut in recent years. Though expectations should certainly be kept in check for now. We may not hear about anything on the CoD Zombies front until the reported standalone project rears its head in late 2023.

Call of Duty 2022: Modern Warfare 2 modes

The first new mode confirmed for Modern Warfare 2 is described an evolution of the Gunfight playlist referred to as Knockout. This new spin on the formula has teams fighting without respawns in a round-based mode. The aim of the game is to either eliminate your opponents in each round, or control a package for 60 seconds in total.

Moreover, a previously leaked Rainbow Six Siege-inspired mode is also official. Known as Prisoner Rescue, this unique mode boasts a more tactical approach to round-based combat.

Rather than going in guns blazing, teams first have to strategize around two hostages on the map. Players have access to new gadgets, traps, and can even use cameras to scout the opposition.

The Tarkov style mode, known as DMZ (Demilitarized zone), was confirmed at Call of Duty Next. CoD leaker Tom Henderson said that DMZ has “been in some form of development since early 2018 (so technically 4.5 years by the time it releases)”, making it one of the most ambitious modes to coincide with a new installment.

With a 20-35 player count, this new Call of Duty project takes place on Warzone 2’s Al Mazrah map. According to rumors, players will be tasked with looting up and working their way through various smaller environments before seeking extraction.

DMZ supposedly has four unique maps in development. A key point noted by prominent insider ‘TheGhostOfHope’ is that these maps will be exclusive to the DMZ mode. Therefore, don’t expect to see them in Warzone 2 or Modern Warfare 2’s multiplayer component.

“All of these maps differ considerably in design. Some are catered for open-world, others are more concentrated and dense,” the insider claimed.

Items earned or purchased through the DMZ mode or marketplace can then be used “across multiplayer and eventually Warzone 2,” early leaks claim.

DMZ launches alongside Warzone 2 on November 16. Meaning Modern Warfare 2, Warzone 2, and this third offering all release within a few weeks of each other.

Call of Duty 2022: Modern Warfare 2 maps

In this year’s new CoD entry, maps are being divided into separate categories. Core Maps are typical 6v6 designs, while Battle Maps are larger spaces fit for the likes of Ground War.

You can take a full look at every confirmed map right here.

All 18 POIs for Warzone 2’s new map Al Mazrah were revealed at Call of Duty Next. The long-rumored inclusion of original Modern Warfare 2 and other classic CoD maps came to fruition.

Here are all the classic maps in Warzone 2.

• Quarry- Modern Warfare 2
• Highrise- Modern Warfare 2
• Observatory- Modern Warfare 3
• Showdown- CoD 4
• Terminal- Modern Warfare 2

Infinity Ward gave us our first in-depth look at multiplayer during CoD Next. We officially know details about four core 6v6 maps and two battle maps. A supposed list of map names made waves online. 28 codenames in total were made public.

Furthermore, various leaks have suggested a haul of classic CoD maps from Treyarch and Sledgehammer may arrive in Modern Warfare 2 at some stage in the near future. Described as a ‘greatest hits map pack,’ we could be in store for the likes of Nuketown, London Docks, and plenty more to make a return in the next CoD release.

Activision announced two classic maps, returning to Modern Warfare 2 during Season 1.

As always, take these leaks with a pinch of salt until we see confirmation from the developers.

Equipment, Field Upgrades, & Killstreaks in Modern Warfare 2

As you would expect from a new iteration of CoD, new tools of destruction are available. From lethal and tactical equipment never before seen in the franchise to popular killstreaks making a return, there’s plenty to keep in mind.

In terms of equipment, the usual Claymores, Frags, and Throwing Knives are all in effect. But joining the list this year is the Drill Charge, a devastating explosive that can launch through surfaces to clear out rooms in an instant. On the tactical side, Heartbeat Sensors are back, as are Stuns, Flashes, and Stims. But joining the list is the Shock Stick, capable of debilitating your opponents for a brief period.

As for Field Upgrades, we know of 15 already thanks to an early look through the Beta. The usual inclusions are all here like Dead Silence, Munitions Boxes, and Trophy Systems, but there are quite a few newcomers to be aware of. Loadout Drops are making the jump from Warzone into MW2, allowing everyone on your team to equip an extra Primary Weapon without needing Overkill. Tactical Cameras can be placed on any surface to provide an extra line of sight. And Inflatable Decoys can pose as an Operator while you flank. That’s just the tip of the iceberg though, so be sure to brush up here with a look at every Field Upgrade.

Last but not least, for Killstreaks, everything is fairly standard in Modern Warfare 2. UAVs, Care Packages, Cruise Missiles, Sentry Guns, Chopper Gunners, Gunships, Advanced UAVs, Juggernauts, all the typical inclusions are back once again for another year in CoD.

New Modern Warfare 2 Gunsmith explained

Looking to streamline the weapon leveling process this year, Activision has overhauled its Gunsmith system. Rather than unlocking a new gun then having to unlock dozens of attachments for it, players can now unlock attachments for certain weapon types that then carry over.

Receivers are now all important in CoD. Each weapon starts with its default Receiver but multiple can soon be acquired. For instance, what begins as an Assault Rifle can be morphed into an SMG or LMG with the right Receiver equipped. By leveling these Receivers, you earn attachments for that specific type that can then be used on future weapons within the same family.

Therefore, instead of having to grind out all every single weapon and all of the attachments each time, this should drastically reduce the amount of time it takes.

Activision confirmed 51 primary and secondary weapons at launch and 33 unique weapon platforms. there are 10 assault rifles, four battle rifles, seven SMGs, six LMGs, four shotguns, six marksman rifles, three sniper rifles, one riot shield, five sidearms, four launchers, and one melee secondary weapon.

Call of Duty 2022: Modern Warfare 2 leaks

Before Call of Duty Vanguard was even released, it already appeared as if we knew where 2022’s title was headed. Leaks dating back to September teased ‘Project’ Cortez as a direct sequel to Modern Warfare 2019.

Based on the earliest leaks, players would supposedly join US special forces in fighting a “covert war against Colombian drug cartels,” according to a report from VGC. This campaign was allegedly set to ‘feel like’ Red Dead Redemption 2, with brutal realism, gore, and unique death animations. Tom Henderson from the VGC expanded on this take, highlighting “sophisticated” A.I. present in Modern Warfare 2, adding that they’ll be tougher than ever before.

“If you shoot them in the arms or the legs, they’ll lose their limbs. If you shoot them in the chest, they might not necessarily die straight away,” Henderson said in a breakdown of the game’s dismemberment mechanics.

However, this proved not to be the case once Modern Warfare 2 was officially unveiled in June. We now know the campaign is a direct follow-up to Modern Warfare 2019, following Task Force 141 through a globetrotting story.

Alongside the leaked map loading screens, we also have a pretty solid idea of the game’s weapon pool thanks to significant weapon leaks. A number of guns from 2019 Modern Warfare will return, including the AX-50, Bruen Mk9, MP5, and MP7. There will also be never-before-seen weapons, so don’t worry too much about a repeat of MW 2019’s multiplayer.

Other leaks have mentioned that the brand new multiplayer maps will feature a “brighter aesthetic” than 2019’s game, which was dominated by desert environments. Rumors also claim players will be able to select 4 perks as opposed to the standard 3, with Last Stand returning as a Field Upgrade.

Modern Warfare 2 Warzone integration

It has been confirmed that Infinity Ward is currently developing Warzone 2 alongside its next main game.

The sequel to the CoD battle royale releases on November 16, shortly after Modern Warfare 2’s release. From gameplay innovations and engine upgrades to a full new arsenal of weapons and equipment, integration with Warzone 2 is sure to provide a fresh experience.

If you click on a product link on this page we may earn a small affiliate commission.