The Best Call of Duty Campaigns, Ranked

Welcome to our journey through the best Call of Duty campaigns ever! Over twenty years, Call of Duty has become a titan in the gaming world, offering a mix of heart-pounding action and gripping storytelling. From World War II's gritty battles to futuristic space wars, these campaigns have something for everyone. While multiplayer modes often steal the spotlight, it's the thrilling campaigns that have etched a special place in gamers' hearts.

Today, we're going to rank these unforgettable adventures. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the series, get ready to dive into the best Call of Duty has to offer! Let's embark on this epic journey together.

Best Call of Duty Campaigns

10. Call of Duty: WWII (2017)

Taking us back to the roots of warfare, Call of Duty: WWII stands out as a memorable journey in the series. This game isn't just about shooting; it's an homage to the Band of Brothers-style camaraderie seen in WWII's European theater. What makes it unique? Your squad isn't just there for show. Each member plays a crucial role, from providing ammo to calling in air support. This integration of squad mechanics adds a fresh layer to the gameplay.

You'll experience intense battles and a changing landscape, keeping the pace exciting and varied. Call of Duty: WWII doesn't just revisit history; it pays respect to it, making it one of the best Call of Duty campaigns for those who appreciate a blend of action and historical reverence.

9. Call of Duty: Ghosts (2013)

Call of Duty: Ghosts marks a bold step into a new era, presenting a vision of a United States in ruins. It brings a unique blend of chaos and creativity. As you journey through Ghosts, you're treated to a diverse array of settings - from a lush, overgrown America to snow-entrenched oil facilities and mysterious sunken wreckages. The game's strength lies in these unique environments and the intense set pieces that unfold within them.

However, it's the cliffhanger ending that leaves players hanging, a narrative risk that sparks both intrigue and disappointment. Ghosts stands as a testament to the franchise's willingness to explore new stories and worlds, offering a campaign that's as memorable as it is controversial.

8. Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War

Black Ops Cold War is a standout in the best Call of Duty campaigns, especially considering its short development cycle. This game proves that even under time constraints, quality isn't compromised. Black Ops Cold War impresses with a blend of top-notch multiplayer and an innovative Zombies mode. But it's the campaign that truly shines. Breaking away from linear storytelling, it offers players freedom to choose their mission paths, a refreshing change in the series.

The combination of stunning graphics, engaging gunplay, and this new-found freedom creates an immersive experience. It's a mix that fans appreciated, marking Black Ops Cold War as a key chapter in the Call of Duty saga, and a campaign that stands out for its innovation and player engagement.

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

Call of Duty: Black Ops III takes its rightful place among the best Call of Duty campaigns with a futuristic flourish. Released in 2015, this game expanded the already popular Black Ops series. Its story plunges players into a near-future world, brimming with advanced technology and new combat dynamics.

What sets Black Ops III apart? It's the series' longest campaign, packed with action and a level of verticality not seen before. This 'jetpack Call of Duty' game blends a compelling narrative with a unique gameplay experience. The campaign marked a high point in the series, offering a glimpse into the future of warfare. It wasn't until 2020's Black Ops Cold War that fans saw another campaign in this sub-franchise, making Black Ops III a memorable and significant chapter in the Call of Duty legacy.

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

Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare, a game that reshaped the gaming world, earns its spot in the best Call of Duty campaigns. This 2007 masterpiece brought the series into the modern era, touching on contemporary themes like terrorism and the effects of Western interventionism. What makes Modern Warfare stand out? It's not just a game; it's a narrative experience that resonates with the times. The campaign is addictive, with a memorable soundtrack and gameplay that constantly challenges players.

The settings, ranging from tense urban environments to high-stakes international hotspots, are designed to engage and provoke thought. This game didn't just change the gaming landscape; it cemented Call of Duty's status as a top-tier first-person shooter. With iconic missions like "Crew Expendable" and "Mile High Club," Modern Warfare offers a campaign that's as thought-provoking as it is thrilling.

5. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare (2019)

Revitalizing a classic, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare (2019) breathes new life into the franchise, making it a standout in the best Call of Duty campaigns. This reboot wasn't just a hit; it became the franchise's best-selling game, showcasing a resurgence in popularity. The campaign is a key highlight, offering a realistic, immersive experience with cutting-edge graphics and physics.

Players navigate a complex world, taking control of various characters, including both new faces and familiar ones like Gaz, Price, and Nikolai.

Though not the longest, the campaign's intensity and depth leave a lasting impact. It's known for pushing boundaries, sometimes even more controversially than its predecessor, Modern Warfare 2. This reboot not only provided a fantastic adventure but also set the stage for Call of Duty: Warzone, further expanding the Modern Warfare universe.

4. Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare (2016)

Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare takes the fourth spot in our best Call of Duty campaigns, launching players into a bold, space-based adventure. Think of it as a high-octane space opera with a military twist. The story catapults you into a conflict between Earth and a secessionist Martian colony, where you're tasked with guerrilla warfare tactics against a backdrop of interstellar conflict.

What makes Infinite Warfare unique? Its setting in outer space offers an exhilarating change of pace, complete with Zero-G battles and asteroid-based missions. The game challenges you to make strategic decisions about when and where to strike, offering a level of autonomy in planning your approach to each mission. This title stands out for its imaginative take on the future of warfare, offering players a campaign that's as thoughtfully designed as it is action-packed.

3. Call of Duty: Black Ops (2010)

Securing the third place in our best Call of Duty campaigns is the iconic Call of Duty: Black Ops, released in 2010. This game marked the beginning of a sub-franchise that would captivate players for years. The campaign sets you mostly in the boots of Alex Mason during the Vietnam War, delivering a raw and intense portrayal of the era's combat. Black Ops is more than just its campaign; it's known for revolutionizing multiplayer and introducing one of the best Zombies modes.

However, it's the campaign's perfect length and gripping storyline that truly make it stand out. The narrative's mix of intrigue and action keeps you on the edge of your seat, making Black Ops a defining moment in the Call of Duty series. It's this combination of storytelling and gameplay excellence that cements its place as a fan favorite.

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

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 claims the second spot in our ranking of the best Call of Duty campaigns. Released in 2009, this game is a masterclass in storytelling, setting new standards for the first-person shooter genre. The campaign dives into a world where the United States and Russia are tricked into a full-scale war, taking players through unforgettable missions in suburban America, Washington D.C., and remote Russian locales. Modern Warfare 2's campaign is renowned for its shocking plot twists and deeply immersive set pieces.

The soundtrack adds an emotional depth, enhancing the overall experience. This game isn't just a sequel; it's a groundbreaking piece of interactive storytelling that pushes the boundaries of what video games can achieve. With its iconic status and revolutionary impact, Modern Warfare 2 is more than just a game – it's a landmark in video game history.

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1. Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 (2012)

Topping our list of the best Call of Duty campaigns is Call of Duty: Black Ops 2, released in 2012. This game takes the interactive storytelling of video games to a new level. What sets Black Ops 2 apart is its dynamic campaign, where your decisions directly impact the storyline, leading to multiple endings. This feature adds a layer of replayability and personal investment, as choices made in the heat of battle shape the world's fate. The narrative centers around Raul Menendez, a villain whose plans and impact vary based on your actions, both in the past and present. This personal touch makes the threat feel more real and the gameplay more immersive.

Black Ops 2 isn't just a high point for the franchise; it's a standout example of how player choices can create a deeply engaging and unique gaming experience. Its innovative approach to narrative and gameplay secures its place as the pinnacle of Call of Duty campaigns.

Conclusion

In conclusion, our journey through the best Call of Duty campaigns showcases the series' remarkable versatility and storytelling prowess. From the historical battles of WWII to the futuristic warfare in Infinite Warfare, each campaign has left an indelible mark on the gaming landscape. These narratives are more than just backdrops for action; they're immersive experiences that have defined the franchise. As we eagerly await what's next from Call of Duty, these campaigns stand as a testament to the series' lasting appeal and its ability to continually captivate players worldwide.