Fans May Wait Until November for Full Release of the Sequel to Black Ops 2
Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 may not launch its first beta weekend until late September, according to a reliable industry insider. While Activision has yet to announce an official release date for the highly anticipated title, the timing of the beta suggests that the full release may not arrive until November, continuing the franchise’s traditional holiday launch window.
So far, fans have only seen a brief glimpse of Black Ops 7 through its debut cinematic trailer, which premiered during the Xbox Games Showcase in June. The trailer confirmed that the game is a direct sequel to Black Ops 2, set in the year 2035, and teased the return of beloved characters such as David Mason and series antagonist Raul Menendez. Gameplay details remain under wraps, but leaks indicate that it may still be a few months before players can try the game firsthand.
Beta Reportedly Slated After COD Next in Late September
Beta weekends have become a hallmark of Call of Duty’s release schedule, offering fans early access to test weapons, maps, and mechanics while providing valuable feedback to developers. However, according to trusted insider TheGhostOfHope, the first Black Ops 7 beta is expected to begin after this year’s COD Next event, which is rumored to take place in late September.
If accurate, this marks a later start to the marketing cycle compared to Black Ops 6, which held its COD Next event on August 28, 2024, with its beta following shortly after. That said, the timing is still consistent with past trends: COD Next was held on September 15 for Modern Warfare 2 in 2022 and even later in October for Modern Warfare 3 in 2023.
More Details Coming at Gamescom Opening Night Live
Fans won’t have to wait until September for more information about Black Ops 7. Earlier this week, Gamescom host Geoff Keighley announced that the worldwide reveal of Black Ops 7 will take place during Gamescom Opening Night Live on August 19. Whether gameplay footage will be shown at that time remains unclear, but the event promises a deeper look at what’s in store for this year’s Call of Duty installment.
With its darker narrative themes, familiar characters, and futuristic setting, Black Ops 7 is shaping up to be one of the most talked-about shooters of the year. Fans will want to keep an eye on Gamescom and COD Next for the next big reveals as anticipation builds for the franchise’s return this fall.