Early Impressions of Modern Warfare 4’s Campaign Suggest It’s Better Than Expected
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 isn’t officially launching until October 23, but players who pre-ordered the digital version can dive into the single-player campaign starting today. Early reviews are starting to trickle in, and the consensus is that MW4 returns to the core elements that fans love about the franchise’s campaigns, even if it may not be the absolute best in the series.
While there are no scored reviews yet—most reviewers are holding off until they can fully explore the multiplayer modes, including DMZ—the initial impressions are significantly more positive than the reception of last year’s Black Ops 7. That title’s unconventional always-online co-op campaign left many critics scratching their heads, but MW4’s six-hour, 16-mission campaign seems to deliver exactly what players expect from a series that has now expanded to seven games.
One outlet praised it as a must-play single-player experience, highlighting standout levels that evoke classic moments from earlier titles, though it noted that the story felt rushed and unsatisfying, particularly in scenes featuring actor Mads Mikkelsen. The review described the campaign as a sprint to wrap up the narrative that began in 2019.
Another review echoed similar sentiments but was impressed with the overall experience, singling out a mission that felt like “Korea’s answer to D-Day” as a major highlight. A well-known leaker, who previously predicted industry shifts, expressed excitement, calling the game “insane.” Here’s a summary of what others are saying:
Overall, Modern Warfare 4 concludes the series with several jaw-dropping moments and finishes on a high note. The pacing remains tight, even with two interwoven storylines and shifting perspectives, while the diverse missions and settings keep the narrative engaging. This installment stands out as a well-thought-out conclusion to the Modern Warfare saga, ranking as the best campaign since Modern Warfare 2019.
The campaign rekindled my passion for the series. A strong lineup of missions effectively balances a large cast, bidding farewell to familiar characters while forging connections with new ones. A standout mission set behind enemy lines, drawing inspiration from the DMZ mode, is particularly memorable, as are the intense battles that fulfill the game’s blockbuster aspirations. While it may not quite reach the heights of the very best Call of Duty campaigns, if this is the end of this saga, it certainly goes out on a high note.
This is the most enjoyable Call of Duty campaign I’ve experienced in years, largely thanks to its fresh, relatable characters. Over half of the six-hour campaign focuses on a group of young South Korean marines, along with a few Americans, who are caught off guard when North Korea invades. The characters fit familiar archetypes—a serious leader, a quiet observer, and a jokester American—but they’re charming enough that I found myself invested in their stories.
When Modern Warfare 4’s missions hit their mark, they remind me why the series’ campaigns are still vital in a gaming landscape increasingly dominated by online play. While it may still be considered fast food gaming—better than the lackluster Black Ops 7 or Modern Warfare 3—it shows glimpses of how Infinity Ward’s modern take on military thrillers can still push boundaries. If only they’d let me explore a bit more freely.
Some story elements are emotionally impactful and rewarding, while others, like Mads Mikkelsen’s role, feel somewhat underdeveloped. As Infinity Ward appears to be wrapping up the Modern Warfare reboot for now, they’ve delivered a solid experience.
Fans of the single-player aspect of Call of Duty should find plenty to enjoy in what Infinity Ward has crafted. This could be remembered as one of the stronger entries in the series, especially as it rights the ship after a few years of uncertainty and questionable choices. Plus, the game looks stunning on PC, showcasing the best visuals in the franchise to date, enhancing the overall experience.
Where Modern Warfare 4 truly excels is in its gameplay, which is no surprise given the franchise’s reputation for top-notch gunplay. What stands out to me is the campaign’s flow. Unlike many campaigns that struggle with pacing when switching between multiple characters, MW4 handles it seamlessly. The pacing is excellent, complementing each chapter, and the variety in gameplay keeps things fresh—ranging from stealth segments to high-speed chases, and even a level that felt like a unique twist on classic gameplay.
