Image credit: Activision, Treyarch

Fans of the beloved Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 series had been eagerly awaiting news on the seventh installment – and Gamescom 2025 delivered.

Black Ops 7 took center stage at Opening Night Live, with a 17-minute Direct revealing open beta dates, early access options, and major gameplay details. Let’s check them out.

Black Ops 7 CoD Next Campaign News

Activision’s new Call of Duty Direct gave fans a first glimpse at the exciting features of Black Ops 7. More details will follow during the Call of Duty Next showcase on September 30, which is expected to feature extensive live gameplay. The event will lead directly into the Call of Duty Black Ops 7 open beta on October 2, with early access available to players who pre-ordered. The Direct also revealed key campaign details – let’s dive in.

Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 | Gameplay Reveal Trailer

The story of the new installment takes place in the futuristic world of 2035. For the first time in years, Black Ops 7 features either solo or 4-player co-op campaign, giving fans multiple ways to experience the narrative. A key highlight is the massive Avalon map, serving as a central battleground across modes. Thanks to cross-progression, any progress made in the campaign will carry over seamlessly into multiplayer.

Multiplayer Details

Fans were also given a few details about the multiplayer mode. It will launch with 16 maps, including the new 20v20 Skirmish mode. Movement is evolving as well with the introduction of a wall jump, adding another traversal option. If you’re a fan of Omnimovement, don’t worry – it’s still included. Another highlight for longtime fans is the return of unlock challenges from Modern Warfare 3 (2023), as well as the carry forward cosmetics system, allowing items earned in previous titles to be available in Black Ops 7 starting from Season 1.

Black Ops 7 will also bring back the classic round-based Zombies mode, a longtime fan favorite.

Importance of Beta for the Franchise

Both early access and the open beta are crucial for building hype and ensuring a smooth launch. In the past, Call of Duty betas have been massive successes, drawing thousands of fans eager for first looks and streamers ready to showcase the game. Early hands-on play not only boosts excitement but also gives the community a chance to provide feedback before release. It also helps drive sales. With Activision and Treyarch introducing so many new features this year, the upcoming beta feels especially important and exciting.

Release Date

Black Ops 7 release date is November 14, 2025 across PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. With its new features, movement options, maps, co-op campaign, and the return of classic elements like Zombies, Black Ops 7 is shaping up to be one of the year’s most anticipated games. The upcoming early access beta will give fans their first real chance to experience these innovations before launch.