Activision could be looking into implementing a major change for its future Call of Duty titles, starting with a possible free-to-play ‘revenue model’ for Modern Warfare 4.
The next installment’s release for the legendary Modern Warfare series has basically been a poorly kept secret in the games industry, but a surprising development suggests that it could take on a vastly different revenue model from titles past.
A Kotaku report on the internal workings at Activision has revealed that a free-to-play model of some kind might be adopted by the publisher, as early discussions about the release are starting to take place.
Modern Warfare would be taking a new leap where previous Call of Duty’s have yet to go, but questions loom if a free-to-play model could work with the popular shooter.
The report suggests that while Black Ops 4 sold well during its initial launch window, follow up sources of revenue for the title weren’t exactly what the publisher was hoping for. Not looking to repeat that trend, Activision could pull the trigger in changing how the next game brings in cash during its life cycle.
“Activision executives have started to talk about embracing free-to-play as a revenue model – once anathema to the publisher – and, three sources say, are looking into offering a free-to-play component for this year’s new Modern Warfare, although the specifics may not be finalized yet,” the report said.
Furthermore, it seems like there are those inside Activision who “[remain] resistant” to using any kind of free-to-play model for Call of Duty, according to Kotaku’s sources.
Fans of the Modern Warfare franchise might soon get a free-to-play model somewhere within the game.
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How would free-to-play work in Call of Duty?
This could vastly change how Call of Duty players interact with the 2019 title as it would see a model more closely tied with other popular titles like Fortnite Battle Royale and Apex Legends.
While those games are completely free-to-play, if Activision decide to go that route it doesn’t mean the next Modern Warfare 4 will be identical in design based on those models.
Call of Duty games are known for giving players multiple ways of diving into that battlefields be it through a story mode, Multiplayer, Zombies and, since Black Ops 4, a battle royale.
Games like Apex Legends live off their free-to-play structure, and it would be interesting to see how Activision would implement something similar to a CoD title.
Depending on what Infinity Ward has in store for Modern Warfare 4, any one of those modes could follow a free-to-play model while the rest of the title’s offerings retail at a normal price.
Alternitavely, the publisher could be considering making DLC content ‘free’, potentially scrapping the Season Pass, or ‘Black Ops Pass’ which cause so much controversy leading up to Black Ops 4’s release.
The recent reports suggest a lot of things are happening over at Activision and it will be interesting to see where the company decides to go with their next major title.
The very first Assault Rifle unlocked in Black Ops Cold War also happens to be one of the strongest if you follow our rundown on the best possible XM4 loadouts.
While you might think to overlook the base weapons unlocked from the very beginning in any Call of Duty title, the starters in Black Ops Cold War are among the best guns in the game. From the MP5 SMG to the Pelington sniper, the first weapons in most categories can dominate in the right hands and ARs are no different.
The XM4 is unlocked as soon as you start in multiplayer and it’s a rather well-rounded pick. It doesn’t boast the highest damage output or the fastest fire rate. However, it’s arguably the most reliable pick all around.
If you stick with it from the jump and level it through to 55, you’ll have access to a consistent AR whenever the situation calls for it. Here’s an overview of the best possible loadouts for all play-styles to get the most out of the XM4 in Black Ops Cold War.
Most accurate XM4 loadout
ActivisionThis loadout will keep your shot on point with the XM4.
Attachments
Optic: Microflex LED
Muzzle: SOCOM Eliminator
Barrel: 13.5 Reinforced Heavy
Body: SWAT 5mw Laser Sight
Underbarrel: Field Agent Grip
Magazine: 40 Rnd
Handle: Airborne Elastic Wrap
Stock: Raider Pad
Secondary
1911
Perks
Perk 1: Flak Jacket
Perk 2: Gearhead
Perk 3: Ghost
Equipment
Lethal: Frag Grenade
Tactical: Stimshot
Field Upgrade: Field Mic
Wildcard – Gunfighter
While other Wildcards can be solid to get you more perks or more equipment, Gunfighter is essential to help the XM4 reach its full potential. Dropping in with eight unique attachments will make you a real threat on the map.
You can pick and choose whichever Optic you’d like. Though with most ARs, you never want to limit your overall vision. Selecting a smaller sight can help keep you aware of everything nearby, rather than scoping in and having tunnel vision ruin your streak.
Since the XM4 is an all-around solid weapon, there’s no need to deviate from its general strength. Attachments like the Field Agent Grip, SOCOM Eliminator, and even the Laser Sight will help keep your shots accurate.
Whether you’re up close or chipping away from across the map, this loadout will ensure every gunfight is winnable.
Long-range XM4 loadout
ActivisionIf you’re looking to play at a distance, this is the XM4 loadout for you.
Attachments
Optic: –
Muzzle: SOCOM Eliminator
Barrel: 13.5 Reinforced Heavy
Body: –
Underbarrel: Field Agent Grip
Magazine: Salvo 50 Rnd Fast Mag
Handle: Airborne Elastic Wrap
Stock: –
Secondary
LW3 – Tundra
Perks
Perk 1: Paranoia
Perk 2: Assassin
Perk 3: Ghost
Equipment
Lethal: Frag Grenade
Tactical: Stimshot
Field Upgrade: Assault Pack
Wildcard – Law Breaker
If you’re looking for a long-distance variant with the XM4, we’ve got you covered. ARs can be surprisingly lethal from across the map and this setup proves just that. Thanks to a focus on accurate attachments, your shots will be landing no matter the range.
Take the 13.5 Reinforced Heavy Barrel, for instance. This comes with the perfect tradeoff to maximize both bullet velocity and overall range. Rather than hindering one or the other, it’s a solid middle ground so that you can get the best of both worlds. There’s no use having an extreme range attachment if you have to lead your shots by a huge amount.
Moreover, carrying a sniper with you as your secondary ensures you’ll never be out of the fight. After you’ve drained a mag from a distance, you can quickly swap over to a one-shot killing machine with the LW3.
Best competitive XM4 loadout
Activision This XM4 loadout is the best for all-around competition.
Attachments
Optic: Millstop Reflex
Muzzle: –
Barrel: 13.7 Extended / 13.7 Takedown
Body: –
Underbarrel: Field Agent Grip
Magazine: –
Handle: Airborne Elastic Wrap
Stock: Raider Pad
Secondary
1911
Perks
Perk 1: Tactical Mask & Flak Jacket
Perk 2: Assassin & Scavenger
Perk 3: Ninja & Ghost
Equipment
Lethal: Frag Grenade
Tactical: Stimshot
Field Upgrade: Assault Pack
Wildcard – Perk Greed
When it comes to competitive play, you want an XM4 loadout fit for any situation. While playing the AR role, you’ll be taking gunfights from mid to long-range more often than not, but you can often find yourself closer to your enemies as well.
With this setup, you’ll be ready to take anyone down. The Field Agent Grip is a staple for any AR class, according to CDL pro Octane. The same can be said for the Raider Pad and the Airborne Elastic Wrap. With these attachments, your version of the XM4 will be as well-rounded as possible.
Ultimately, buffing your Operator with a variety of perks is what’s going to set you apart here. Gunskill is one thing, but having a loadout prepared for everything will keep you winning map after map.
Fastest XM4 loadout
ActivisionIf you have a need for speed, this is the ultimate XM4 loadout for you.
Attachments
Optic: –
Muzzle: –
Barrel: 11.8 Ranger
Body: Steady Aim Laser
Underbarrel: Infiltrator Grip
Magazine: SAS Mag Clamp
Handle: –
Stock: Raider Pad
Secondary
Knife
Perks
Perk 1: Flak Jacket & Forward Intel
Perk 2: Scavenger & Tracker
Perk 3: Gung-Ho & Ghost
Equipment
Lethal: Semtex
Tactical: Stimshot
Field Upgrade: Field Mic
Wildcard – Perk Greed
To be the fastest with an AR, you’re going to need a finely-tuned loadout. Thanks to these attachments and various perks, you’ll be zooming through the map with your XM4 in no time.
First up is the 11.8 Ranger Barrel. This is important as it’s the only attachment in its class that improves your bullet velocity without actually slowing you down. Others come with slightly improved buffs, but the negative effects are simply too much of a tradeoff.
Similar can be said for the Underbarrel. Infiltrator Grip will help your movement speed in all regards, not just one specific area. You’ll be able to sprint faster, aim quicker, strafe with more agility, and everything in between.
Everything in this loadout is intended to maximize speed. Hence why a Knife secondary can come in handy. Whenever you’re out of the fight, swapping over will improve your sprint speed.
Best objective-based XM4 loadout
ActivisionHopping on the objective has never been easier thanks to this XM4 loadout.
Attachments
Optic: –
Muzzle: SOCOM Eliminator
Barrel: 13.5” Reinforced Heavy
Body: Steady Aim Laser
Underbarrel: –
Magazine: Salvo 50 Rnd Fast Mag
Handle: Airborne Elastic Wrap
Stock: –
Secondary
Gallo SA12
Perks
Perk 1: Flak Jacket & Tactical Mask
Perk 2: Tracker & Gearhead
Perk 3: Ghost & Cold Blooded
Equipment
Lethal: Semtex
Tactical: Stimshot
Field Upgrade: Field Mic
Wildcard – Perk Greed
If flooding the hill or capturing objectives is your primary goal in Black Ops Cold War, you’ll need the right class for the job. Objective players often go underappreciated but you’ll be able to make a huge impact in every game with this XM4 loadout.
Arguably the most important aspect of this class is the perks. You’ll need both Flak Jacket and Tac Mask to survive all incoming spam while you’re playing the objective. Keeping alive through this onslaught is vital if you’re aiming for wins over everything else.
The attachments here give you one of the most well-rounded XM4 setups possible. Gunfights from all ranges won’t be an issue and the 50 Rnd Fast Mag will keep you firing for longer than usual.
With 55 levels to get through, it’s one of the easier grinds in the game given just how versatile the XM4 is. Unlike other ARs that can be a nuisance early on without some powerful buffs from various attachments.
Once you’re all set with this particular loadout and looking for the next challenge, be sure to check our other Black Ops Cold War weapon guides to get the most out of every gun in the game.
Modern Warfare would be taking a new leap where previous Call of Duty’s have yet to go, but questions loom if a free-to-play model could work with the popular shooter.
Fans of the Modern Warfare franchise might soon get a free-to-play model somewhere within the game.
Games like Apex Legends live off their free-to-play structure, and it would be interesting to see how Activision would implement something similar to a CoD title.
