Call of Duty: Black Ops III delivers an immersive and visually stunning experience with its big-budget aesthetic and robust sound design, blending intense combat with a futuristic narrative set in 2065. Despite some technical issues and mixed level design, its innovative movement mechanics, engaging multiplayer, and rich storytelling make it a standout entry in the series.
Better than 92% of games for Multiplayer
Better than 86% of games for Progression System
Better than 80% of games for Music
Top Aspects
The progression systems in Black Ops 4, including Prestige Mode, challenges, and stat tracking, were highlighted as elements that kept players engaged and motivated to continue playing, a feature that the reviewer felt was lacking in recent Call of Duty titles.
The multiplayer in Black Ops 4 is widely praised for its variety and depth. Reviewers highlight the game's extensive movement options, customization features, and balanced classes with special abilities. The 150 health system is particularly noted for encouraging skill-based gunfights, adding a unique twist to the gameplay. The inclusion of Specialists with balanced abilities and rewarding score streaks is seen as a significant enhancement, providing depth and variety. Additionally, the game offers a wide array of options including custom games, split-screen, and online modes. The Prestige Mode and challenges are appreciated for adding a sense of progression and accomplishment. While most reviews are positive, some players have expressed mixed feelings about the 150 health system, suggesting it may require a learning curve to master.
The soundtrack features a mix of artists like Jack Wall, Afrojack, and Avenged Sevenfold, creating a Blade Runner-esque, ambient, and synthetic atmosphere that fits the game's otherworldliness.
The game's atmosphere is highly detailed and immersive, with each map offering a distinct and engaging environment. The use of color and detail in map design contributes significantly to the overall experience.
The game has a star-studded cast with surprisingly good performances, though some characters have short appearances. The writing, however, has some weak spots.
The review criticized Black Ops 4's monetization model, particularly the paid DLC and supply drops, for being outdated and frustrating, though it acknowledged some positive aspects of the supply drops system.
The game boasts a polished presentation with a big-budget summer flick aesthetic, featuring detailed environmental subtleties and set pieces. Character models vary in quality, with some looking outstanding while others appear less refined, especially noticeable in cutscenes.
The main campaign offers a mix of fun and frustration due to poor storytelling, while Nightmare Mode and multiplayer provide a more enjoyable experience. The sheer content and variety of modes add significant value.
The sound design of the game is widely praised for its immersive quality, with robust elements such as explosions, car crashes, and gunfire contributing significantly to the overall experience. Assessment 1 highlights the immersive nature of the sound design but points out issues with stereo separation that may require adjustments in advanced settings. Assessment 2 echoes the immersive experience, emphasizing the impactful weapon effects and explosions, along with a decent soundtrack. Although Assessment 3 does not explicitly discuss the sound design, the immersive atmosphere and emotional moments suggest that the sound design, including music and voice acting, is a strong aspect of the game.
The multiplayer mode features Specialists with unique abilities and weapons, but it is criticized for being repetitive and lacking in strategy. The matchmaking is also poor, often placing high and low-level players on the same team.
If you liked this, try:
How It Compares
Like EA Sports FC 25, but stronger in Graphics
Like 7 Days to Die, but stronger in Progression System, Graphics, Multiplayer




