In a recent interview with VentureBeat, Activision President Rob Kostich dropped a bombshell for Call of Duty fans worldwide: the franchise is set to continue its annual release schedule, with plans extending all the way through 2027. This revelation showcases Activision’s unwavering commitment to the iconic first-person shooter series.
Kostich didn’t mince words, stating, “We’re constantly in our planning phase, our long-term planning phase. Right now, we have games planned out all the way through ’27 for the things that we’re working on.” This announcement underscores the publisher’s dedication to delivering new Call of Duty experiences year after year.
VentureBeat also delved into the colossal development effort behind the Call of Duty juggernaut. While it was once estimated that around 2,000 developers across 10 studios were involved in the franchise, Kostich revealed that the real figure is even higher—3,000 developers from around the world are now contributing to the creation of Call of Duty games. This vast workforce reflects the enormity of the task, regardless of how streamlined the development pipeline may be.
Kostich shed light on the collaborative nature of Call of Duty’s development, where one studio takes the lead while others provide support. For instance, Infinity Ward may lead the development of one game, while studios like Toys for Bob play a crucial supporting role, ensuring the continued innovation and quality of each installment.
In a brief discussion about artificial intelligence (AI), Kostich highlighted its potential in enhancing the Call of Duty experience. He emphasized that Activision is continually exploring ways to leverage AI to create better games.
While there are numerous intriguing AI applications and tools emerging, Kostich noted the importance of thoroughly vetting them to ensure they align with the franchise’s vision.
As the gaming world eagerly anticipates the release of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 on November 10, Activision has sweetened the deal for enthusiasts. Players who pre-order the Vault Edition will gain early access to the campaign, giving them a one-week head start on the action-packed experience.
With this insight into Activision’s long-term vision for Call of Duty and the immense collaborative effort behind its development, fans can rest assured that the franchise will continue to evolve and captivate players for years to come.
