Grab the Squad and Get Ready for a Bigger Battle
Call of Duty: Warzone is about to get a lot more chaotic, and that’s a good thing for players. In a surprise announcement today, Raven Software, the developer behind Warzone, revealed that the battle royale will be increasing its player count from the current 120 to a robust 150 players. This change will be tested across all standard playlists, and while it may not be permanent, the feedback from the community will play a crucial role in its future. For many, this increase means more opportunities to engage in dynamic, high-stakes gameplay and more noobs to chase down. The move comes just in time, as the game prepares for the much-anticipated return of the beloved Verdansk map and the game’s fifth anniversary on March 10.
A Bigger Playground for More Players
Raven Software’s announcement was both surprising and welcome, especially for those who have been longing for a return to the game’s early days. "You may notice something a little different starting today," the developers said in their playful reveal. "In preparation for future updates, we will begin intermittently testing 150 players across standard Battle Royale playlists. We will be closely monitoring player feedback, performance, and overall impact on match flow over the coming weeks." This testing phase is a step toward ensuring that the increased player count doesn’t just add more chaos but also enhances the overall gaming experience. The timing couldn’t be better, as it precedes the expected launch of season three, which is speculated to bring back the iconic Verdansk map.
Verdansk: A Nostalgic Return
The news of the player count increase has been met with universal praise, especially given the impending return of Verdansk. This larger, more intricate map was a fan favorite when it first launched in 2020, and it’s perfect for accommodating more players. According to leaks, Verdansk will closely resemble its original form, with fewer of the changes and innovations that were introduced in the months and years that followed. The map’s return is not just a nod to nostalgia but also a strategic move to rekindle the excitement and community engagement that made Warzone such a hit in its early days.
A Nostalgia Fest with Classic Weapons
The upcoming season is shaping up to be a nostalgia fest, and it’s not just the map that’s making a comeback. Leaks suggest that classic Warzone weapons like the Grau 5.56, CR56 AMAX, and HDR might return, adding to the retro feel. These weapons were integral to the game’s original gameplay, and their presence could make the experience even more reminiscent of those early, quarantine-driven days. When Warzone launched on March 10, 2020, it hit at the height of the global COVID-19 pandemic. Gamers worldwide flocked to the game, forming virtual squads to drop into Verdansk together, creating some of the most memorable and fun moments during a challenging time.
Five Years and Counting
It’s hard to believe that it’s already been five years since Warzone first hit the scene, and the game has come a long way since its inception. Increasing the player count to 150 and bringing back Verdansk are significant steps toward celebrating this milestone. These changes are designed to rekindle the excitement and community spirit that defined Warzone’s early days, potentially drawing back lapsed players and keeping the game fresh for long-time fans. The fifth anniversary is a major event for the Warzone community, and these updates are a fitting tribute to the game’s journey so far.
Looking Ahead to Season Three
While the official release date for season three is still unknown, the in-game timer for the season two battle pass suggests that it will likely launch on March 19 or 20. This timing aligns perfectly with the game’s fifth anniversary, making it a perfect opportunity for a big, nostalgic celebration. The combination of a higher player count, the return of Verdansk, and the potential inclusion of classic weapons is a recipe for a season that is both a tribute to the past and a promising look toward the future of Warzone. As players gear up for this exciting chapter, the anticipation is palpable, and the community is more eager than ever to drop into the fray.
