The Call of Duty (CoD) franchise has maintained a continuous presence on gaming systems since its first release more than 20 years ago. Players who leave the franchise return to play after watching new game trailers along with participating in “Double XP” events. The game succeeds because developers crafted psychological cycles and social systems that make players experience the game as a life-defining ritual instead of a mere pastime.
The “Just One More Match” Loop
CoD offers instant gratification through its system of immediate game rewards. Players can easily choose to play one more match because matches last only 10 minutes. Players will play for three hours after starting a quick session because they believe their next game will begin in 30 seconds.
Constant Positive Feedback
The game “rewards” players with an achievement every time they kill an enemy or achieve an objective. The player experiences game rewards through the “click” sound and the visual display of medals that bring up their XP bar progression. These small dopamine spikes create the sensation that you are achieving victories throughout your day.
The “Camo Grind”
The game exists for players who value visual appearance above all other game elements. Players need to dedicate 100 hours to unlock the special weapon camos which include Gold and Diamond and the extremely rare “Interstellar” skin. Players will return to the game daily because they want to accomplish their daily task of completing five headshot kills.
Low Barrier to Entry
Call of Duty offers players an intuitive experience which allows them to begin playing immediately without needing tactical shooter training. You pick up a controller and see an enemy and your natural response is to shoot. The game provides an ideal experience for people who want to stop thinking after they finish their work or school activities.
Nostalgia for Classic Maps
Developers bring back popular maps from a decade or 15 years ago according to player demand. The game uses “digital nostalgia” to create a gaming experience which allows older players to relive their high school victories while showing young players classic designs from the past.
Constant Content Refreshes
New content appears on the platform through Hollywood movie crossovers and fresh “Zombies” maps which provide ongoing “new” experiences. The system creates a dynamic gameplay experience which allows influencers and streamers to generate continuous “news” content for their audiences.
The Social Safety Net
CoD functions as the primary social area for people who seek spaces to socialize beyond their own homes and workplaces. Players have “squads” which they have played with for multiple years. Players log in to the game as a way to connect with friends while they enjoy a gaming session.
“Juice” and Viscerality
The game demonstrates advanced “game feel” design through its mechanics. The game presents an exceptional experience through its gun kick and controller vibration and character movement speed which surpasses all other shooting games.
The Annual Event Status
In the U.S. movie industry new Call of Duty games launch like Hollywood blockbusters which create national events. The situation has become a prominent cultural event which all people are discussing. Players will join the upcoming November launch because they desire to participate in the “global conversation” despite their doubts about the game.
