How to switch scorestreaks and killstreaks in Modern Warfare 2

Jacob Hale
Modern Warfare 2 chopper gunner streak next to game logo

Modern Warfare 2 dropped with killstreaks as default in multiplayer. However, there is a way to change your killstreaks into scorestreaks if you desire. Here’s how to do exactly that.

Throughout CoD history, there has been regular switching between killstreaks and scorestreaks. Modern Warfare 2 uses killstreaks as default.

However, some players prefer to be rewarded simply for racking up kills, while others like to earn points by playing objectives like capturing flags or holding a hardpoint.

In Modern Warfare (2019), the game used killstreaks, but players could use the Pointman perk to switch to scorestreaks instead.

Modern Warfare 2: how to choose killstreaks or scorestreaks

Three years later, in Modern Warfare 2, Infinity Ward have made it even easier for players to switch. You no longer require a specific perk, instead being able to swap them in the pre-match menu.

Here’s what you have to do:

  1. Go to the pre-game menu.
  2. Slide over to the ‘Weapons’ tab.
  3. Select ‘Killstreaks’.
  4. Press R2 (PlayStation) or RT (Xbox) to switch the bottom-left tab over to Scorestreaks. On PC, you can simply click the button in the bottom-left corner.
  5. If you want to switch back, you only have to repeat the process.

Should you use scorestreaks or killstreaks?

If you have a genuine preference then you won’t need us to tell you what to pick. However, if you’re struggling, it’ll likely come down to the kind of modes you enjoy and how you play the game.

If you’re a player who prefers objective game modes – like Domination, Hardpoint or Kill Confirmed – this could be a good switch to make.

For example, Modern Warfare 2’s Chopper Gunner is a 10-kill streak reward, but costs 1250 as a scorestreak. If you’re constantly slaying around the objective, getting assists and earning points for the team, you might end up getting your streaks even quicker when they’re determined by score.

If you predominantly play modes where kills are easier to accumulate than points – like Team Deathmatch or Free For All – it’s probably better to stick with the default killstreaks.

If you’re unsure, try both out for a few matches and see which reaps you more rewards. You can always follow the instructions above and switch your settings back.

About The Author

Jacob is Dexerto’s UK Editor and Call of Duty esports specialist. With a BA (Hons) in English Literature and Creative Writing, he previously worked as an Editor at Ginx TV. Jacob was nominated for Journalist of the Year at the 2023 Esports Awards. Contact: jacob.hale@dexerto.com.