13 Nov
Blog

Call Of Duty: Vanguard Review: Innovating Backwards

Soldiers walking in Call of Duty: Vanguard promo.

Call of Duty: Vanguard

RRP $ 59.99

"While it adds some interesting new features to the Call of Duty formula, Vanguard's mixed changes make it an entry to remember."

advantages

  • Guns feel wonderful

  • Classic, fast-paced multiplayer

  • Destructible environments add depth

disadvantage

  • Forgotten campaign

  • The new zombies formula isn't that fun

  • Unbalanced weapons in multiplayer

  • A cheat's paradise

I fell in love with Call of Duty again two years ago when the series' Modern Warfare storyline restarted. The game contained many of the good parts of the classic Call of Duty experience while adding some fun new parts at the same time. The tactical sprint was a joy, new options for varied gameplay with equipment and new weapons (including a lever rifle that I spent way too much time improving with) were a joy. Call of Duty: Vanguard seemed to mimic a lot of this before its release, using the same engine as Modern Warfare, and mimicking the more realistic feel.

However, Vanguard is all show and very little substance. It bends off some features and claims they are new if it's really just one of them. Outside of multiplayer, both Vanguard's campaign and zombie modes try to reinvent their classic interpretations, though both fail in those attempts. After spending around 15 hours playing the game so far, I'm happy to put my controller down and leave Vanguard for good.

Characters have no character

I have some expectations when diving into a Call of Duty game as I've been a gamer for years. I expect a straightforward campaign that lets actions speak louder than words and a zombie mode where I can turn my brain off completely and enjoy the carnage with a few friends. Vanguard tries to mix up both experiences with some pretty radical changes, though the result is that both changes left me with a bad taste in my mouth.

Call of Duty: Vanguard's campaign brings the franchise back to World War II one more time. Instead of viewing the war through the lens of the fighters of a particular faction, the players are introduced to the Vanguards, a select group of highly qualified specialists from the allied nations. Everyone has their own backstory, methodology, and even special skills. Each is also painfully uninteresting, along with the rest of the campaign.

Very few of Vanguard's combative encounters get the blood pumping like previous entries in the franchise.

Vanguard puts his characters at the center of the story, not their battle. It's a big twist on a Call of Duty title that would work better if the game actually managed to get me interested in one of the Vanguards. Instead, the group presents itself as a motley team of stereotypes. The Australian was in and out of jail and ignores orders, the American is a lone fighter, the Russian is vendetta-happy and the team is led by a rational British. These descriptions are the beginning and the end of the depth of the characters that players slip into. They're typical Call of Duty characters – superficial and uninspired – yet they're in the spotlight nonetheless.

The action set pieces that usually get all the attention in a Call of Duty title are also a little disappointing. Most of Vanguard's missions follow the formula of having the player sneak before engaging them in a firefight. However, very few of Vanguard's combat-heavy encounters get the blood pumping like previous entries in the franchise.

Call of Duty: Vanguard - crawl through a jungle

Establishing tradition

If Vanguard manages to bring the intensity, it does so with weighty weapons and fantastic sound design. Each weapon in Vanguard has its own sound profile that is fascinating to listen to. I can still hear the somewhat hollow, tinny sound that an MP40 makes when it is reloading. Firing guns is a simple joy in Vanguard, and the fact that they can blow away cover (or even body parts) only gives this power that power.

Each character's skills don't add much to the power trip that players should be feeling. They are all extremely simple: highlighting enemies, commanding teammates, making players hold onto different types of explosives, etc. These skills set any character apart during the game, but they made little difference in the end.

Each weapon in Vanguard has its own sound profile that is fascinating to listen to.

Vanguard's campaign turns everything players should expect from the single-player Call of Duty experience on its head. It lacks those massive action-packed moments, instead it tells its story through character-oriented cutscenes. The same quick change of direction also applies to the game's Zombie mode, which now features a slew of characters who shout commands at players as they complete objectives. Killing zombies is not a pointless action in Vanguard, but a goal-based mode in which the next steps the player must carefully consider.

Zombies run in Call of Duty: Vanguard.

The game's lone map, The Beginning, places players in a hub area and leads them to portals that lead to zones where players must complete objectives. Some objectives are as simple as killing zombies and surviving, while others challenge players to collect drops from zombies and take them to a giant obelisk. While it's fun to revisit old zombie maps like Shi No Numa from Call of Duty: World at War and have instant access to the Pack-A-Punch machine in the hub, Vanguard's Zombie Mode felt like it was through its goals and made me wish it were more directional like its previous iterations.

The sign is missing

A Call of Duty game is characterized by its multiplayer mode, in which almost all players spend a large part of their time. And while I can testify that Vanguard's multiplayer is better than the other two game modes, this isn't exactly a high quality bar. The multiplayer in Vanguard offers satisfactory gunplay overall, but suffers from far too many balancing issues that punish players who are unwilling to grind up the game for a weekend.

When you step into Call of Duty: Vanguard's multiplayer, you get a basic set of weapons and perks. But what the game doesn't tell you is that these weapons and perks are some of the worst around. Low level players are constantly being outdone by high level players who have access to the game's better weapons and weapon accessories. The game's STG-44, its starting assault rifle, for example, is incredibly difficult to control with its starting attachments when shooting. But higher-level players who have leveled up the weapon can turn it into a laser beam that knocks down players in no time.

Vanguard's multiplayer also encounters some classic first-person shooter multiplayer problems. On some of the smaller, more chaotic maps in the game, it's not uncommon to spawn in front of an enemy and give them a quick, free kill. This problem isn't uncommon enough as not to jeopardize the outcome of a game at times or to give opponents easy access to their killstreaks, some of which are problematic in themselves. Some of Vanguard's killstreaks drop bombs on the map, and while they won't always harm you, they are guaranteed to send a cloud of smoke into the player's face. It's a disorienting effect that easily made me lose shootings and generally feeling unfair.

Call of Duty Vanguard's multiplayer mode.

Vanguard's biggest problem, aside from weird spawns and balancing issues, it shares with Call of Duty: Warzone. During my time with the game, I have played a handful of games where it was clear that a player was cheating. Killcams showed them locking onto players, sometimes through walls, before mowing them down with extremely precise fire. Cheaters will eventually make their way into any game, but given the competitive nature of some of Vanguard's game modes, such as Search and Destroy, encountering cheaters can be a game-breaking experience.

During my time with the game, I have played a handful of games where it was clear that a player was cheating.

But when everything is going right in a Vanguard game, when things don't feel too unbalanced and there are no cheaters around, the game's innovations shine. Adding destructible environments to the game brings a new level of depth as entire chunks of cover are eventually blown away, transforming the cards. Being able to burst through walls is just a tough move, like something ripped straight out of a '90s action movie. It is unfortunate that these features are overshadowed by Vanguard's more prominent issues.

Our opinion

Vanguard does what every entry in the Call of Duty franchise tries to do. It is supposed to develop the fast-paced action of the series and in some places turn entire game modes upside down. But Call of Duty: Vanguard is an example of innovation in the wrong direction. It emphasizes the wrong parts of a Call of Duty campaign and zombie mode, making them the worst versions of themselves. The only redeeming factor in the game is the multiplayer, which keeps the good ol 'run-and-gun playstyle the the players should expect. However, it is bogged down with its own problems, ranging from cheaters to potentially game-destroying spawns. These issues can be fixed, however, and once they are fixed, Vanguard could be left as an overall decent entry into the franchise for multiplayer aficionados.

Anyway, I'll be playing Modern Warfare for at least another year from 2019.

Is there a better alternative?

If you're looking for a new multiplayer FPS, Battlefield 2042 is easy to recommend.

How long does it take?

The Call of Duty: Vanguard campaign goes by quickly and lasts a little over six hours. Anyone looking to unlock everything in the game's multiplayer should be able to chat with the game until another Call of Duty title comes out next year.

Should you buy it?

Call of Duty: Vanguard doesn't hit Modern Warfare's 2019 quality mark, which is holding up well to this day. If you are in dire need of new Call of Duty content, feel free to purchase the game, but if you are happy with the game in the franchise you are playing, hang on and forego this one.

Call of Duty: Vanguard publisher Activision-Blizzard is currently facing legal proceedings over the company's alleged history of toxic behavior in the workplace. If this could influence your purchase decision, we recommend that you read up on the situation.

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06 Apr
Blog

How to select the best heavy duty treadmill for home

There is no doubt that the treadmill is one of the most powerful exercise machines in the gum center. One of the most important factors is choosing the best High performance treadmill for a home gym.

Because nowadays a lot of fitness equipment is available on the online market or near the shop. The biggest challenge is not to find the quality device easily or straightforwardly.

In these reviews, we will discuss an obese treadmill on which you can learn details about its features. After reading this post, we are very sure that you will get a clear idea of ​​the fitness equipment. So stay with us and see at a glance!

How to choose the best high performance treadmill for the home

Motor speed

A powerful motor ensures that your running or walking activities become more effective and efficient. The entire sports brand, especially the treadmill, has a powerful motor with a minimum speed of 2.0-3.0 MPH, which is really remarkable when running or walking. You can choose any of the engines that you can run without any problem.

Running belt

It is a very limited component before choosing the best running machine for a home gym. The running machine also gives you enough surface space as this is the main thing that makes your goal go smoothly. In this day and age, the maximum treadmill offers 15 x 55 inches or 18 x 60 running belts that allow you to comfortably end your activities.

save time and money

There is no doubt that going to the gym is very time consuming and costly. Suppose you go to the gym nearby so you need to prepare for difficult activities. And after you hit the gym, you have to wait for an empty workout to begin your journey. However, when you buy a high capacity indoor walking machine, you can work anytime, anywhere. At the same time, all of your family members have the opportunity to keep fit and to increase endurance.

Prevent various diseases

One study has shown that physical activity can increase your strength and endurance, and prevent various diseases like diabetes, cancer, and more.

So, if you want to prevent the risk of illness mentioned above, you need to spend some time on the treadmill regularly.

characteristics

More training function makes your performance more impressive. For this reason, the entire sports organizer has many attractive functions that ensure your training progress precisely. If you are planning on purchasing equipment, you need to look at which feature you would like for your performance.

LCD screen

Typically, every single fitness machine with an LCD console can keep track of your current activity data such as time, distance, calories and speed. This is one of the most important parts of the fitness machine, it shows your data and motivates you to increase your performance.

Emergency security key

Currently, maximum fitness equipment, especially treadmill machines, comes with an emergency safety key that you can use to stop your machine after a fall. So if you are looking to buy a device that you can run or walk with, I recommend choosing a high capacity instrument to get a security key.

Summary

A treadmill if you are overweight not only strengthens your fitness, but also prevents many health diseases. So we strongly recommend that you consider a high performance running machine that will perfectly solve your fitness problem and provide many benefits that you need for your body.

02 Apr
Blog

Call of Duty: Warzone Review: The Definitive Battle Royale

Call of Duty Warzone Duos squads leaked trio

Call of Duty: Warzone Review: Looting the Competition

"Call of Duty: Warzone is the final Battle Royale experience right now."

  • Enough unique aspects to stand out from the crowd

  • Decades of foundation ensure a solid experience

  • The looting mode is a welcome surprise

  • Position audio is somewhat overblown

  • Existing players may have a small charging advantage

After an embarrassing number of rumors and leaks, Call of Duty reentered the Battle Royale scene with Warzone for the second time. a free portion of the larger 2019 release of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare.

The first attempt to get on the train with the heavily marketed blackout was largely forgotten in the weeks after it started. Activision, probably worried about trying again, then sold its next annual shooter release without mentioning the mode that would eventually fill the empty space in its main menu.

However, Warzone doesn't just refer to the game's belated Battle Royale experience. A separate mode called Plunder is also available and could turn out to be the next big thing.

Since the advent of PUBG and Fortnite, the industry has been practically floating in Battle Royale variants. I wouldn't blame you for having all Battle Royale titles created equally, but the industry knows that blatant imitators don't float. Not if you need large numbers of players to get a single game going. Those who survive stick to the defining characteristics of the genre: around a hundred players struggle to be the last to be on a battlefield that is gradually shrinking to the size of your average community allocation.

Warzone sticks to that, but brings decades of industrial polish and a few new ideas to the table.

Good morning Verdansk!

In the Warzone version of Battle Royale, the usual limit of 100 people is increased to 150 to allow the three-man team to line up. Just like EA's response with Apex Legends, Activision seems to be pushing for longevity through social interaction. The more the better and all of that. Camping is not a good spectator sport, and the bigger the squad, the more likely a hot-headed soldier will go against the grain. Pressing a forced group scenario won't help the scared lone wolf, but a "Mute All" button is clearly visible to rule out all of this potential negative energy.

CoD Warzone fall

Solo mode was introduced in a post-release patch, but since it can be removed at any time, get ready to roll the dice in a squad queue at some point in your career. After all, you can't expect every player to want their time to be at the command of a predetermined team. Form a ready-made strategy if you are looking for a maritime strategy and fraternal pats on the back and are concerned only with the fact that games are for some entertainment. no job.

What will help the conscious player, however, are the numerous respawn options that are available after taking a few too many on the chest. Squads can take seriously injured teammates, but even if you succumb to your injuries, it doesn't mean you're not in the game. Step into the bucket and you'll be taken to the Gulag – a card that current Modern Warfare players are undoubtedly aware of – to win their freedom in a one-on-one game. The loadouts are chosen randomly each time. So you have to change your usual duel tactics to have a chance of winning. Live and you get a second chance on the field. Waste your chances or fall again, and surviving allies can throw some cash into a local donor box to bring you back again.

Competition creates innovation

The battle royale genre secured a place in the video game's hall of fame through its survival aspect at a time when sandbox survival simulations were making decent numbers. The idea that death means death resonated with those tired of the running and weapon tactics of most online shooters. It is interesting to see that competitors are gradually deciding to upset the delicate balance of the genre, but this second chance mechanic should make a huge contribution to promoting player loyalty.

CoD Warzone Bullet Trails

Without a ranking season, top players will always mix with the less experienced and relative newcomers, so the 99% have little hope of ending a game. Where is it fun to step into the bucket faster than is required to load a lobby? What Call of Duty has done here doesn't seem to be in the best interests of the professionals, but in reality it's a way to give the less competitive people a reason to stay with them. Big esports players don't rely on respawns to get to the top. The only thing that should do this is to give more people the chance to enjoy the action while filling up the champions' points.

Constantly supplying the grinder with meat is not the only thing Warzone does to mix up the well-known formula. Do you feel selfish or don't you have a buddy who brings you back to life? With this money, you can collect your favorite killstreaks, extra ammo, or even extra armor if you expect a big brawl. The unpredictable nature of long-range killstreaks, drawn from nowhere, will prove to be just as annoying as any regular match, but it's hard to deny that gameplay spices that buy killstreaks can add to the otherwise predictable experience. Battle Royale fanatics have worked out a carefully orchestrated script for success over the years, and anything that shakes the status quo will give Warzone a definite reason to coexist with the established titles over time. And there is more to it than that.

CoD Warzone weapons

Loadouts that come into play regularly reward a high-risk play style. They are similar to airdrops in the well-known Battle Royale titles, but they do not offer random, high-quality loot that everyone can argue about, but a selection of predefined loadouts, complete kits with combat-ready tools and equipment to get you back in the fight. Warzone, like the others, also offers tiered loot. It is not immediately clear what rarity one weapon has over another, but expect those found in caches scattered around the site to have more accessories than the average assault rifle.

Finally, there are contracts and missions that you can find on site and that can be completed for a bit more money on the road. These mark targets (such as loot caches or even enemy squads) on the map and give the teams even more reasons to risk life and limb outdoors and actively look for ways to start a fight. Exploration is a big part of the Battle Royale experience, and Warzone is doing everything in its power to facilitate and promote the outbreak of violence. It sounds stressful, but it's another reason why I see it as an advantage over the competition when it comes to engaging players and viewers. It is rarely boring.

Looting is not a mistake

Aside from the Battle Royale aspect, there is another 50% of the Warzone experience – and that's the best part. At a time when we can't take two steps without falling from a plane into a life or death battle over a desert island, Plunder is here to offer something completely unique. The best parts of modes like Kill Confirmed and Search & Destroy are required to offer a huge cat and mouse game in the same expansive environment as its older siblings.

CoD Warzone locations

You won't find that many players in this mode, but it's the best. Groups of three players fall on the island (with their full loads) and sprint to get cash and deposit it for safe keeping. This is done by expensive balloons or by risking everything with a helicopter pickup. If you die in cash on yourself, a substantial amount will be deducted with the aim of securing the best before the long timer expires. Respawns are activated here. While you don't want to die and drop your money for the most part, it isn't the end of the world if you have some gross spawns.

It's like The Weakest Link, only Anne Robinson has a gun.

Just like in Battle Royale mode, there is a lot going on to advance the match. Contracts are everywhere, helicopters can be shot for big splashes of money, you can raid your enemies' wallets, and there is huge amounts of money stowed in caches scattered around the map. To improve competitiveness, top earners pinged their locations on the map throughout the game, resulting in a messy pursuit that will undoubtedly result in the types of montages you'll only see in a hype trailer before release . Rather than fear for your own life at every step, fear for the money you couldn't throw into a helicopter or fancy balloon. It's like The Weakest Link, only Anne Robinson has a gun.

Like it or not, the Battle Royale "madness" is unlikely to go anywhere. Each. The good news here, at least, is that Activision's second try is currently one of the best – not only because of what it adds to the genre, but also because of the foundation on which it is based. PUBG, the one who triggered this whole gold mine rush, is still struggling with groundbreaking errors and inconsistent spatial audio cues three years after its release. Warzone has largely avoided these audio problems with the exception of a few thundering steps in a skyscraper.

With nearly two decades of releases, Call of Duty had the foundation for the perfect Battle Royale experience long before the idea became mainstream – Activision just had to show it some love. There is a reason why the series attracts the trigger-minded player type. It just nailed the feeling of firing a round. It's not quite as authentic as Battlefield, but it's clear that Activision's rotating developer teams have developed an addictive sense of shooting over the years that ensures that most players know what to expect before they do take the plunge. It's tense, but fair and oh so rewarding.

Conclusion

Our opinion

I'm inclined to say Call of Duty: Warzone is currently the final Battle Royale experience. I'm not afraid to say that Activision used the best of Call of Duty's extensive history to create a more complete Battle Royale experience, but Plunder is currently the standout piece of the package, and I'm a firm believer in it is convinced that in the near future it will not only become a popular pastime for fans, but also an integral part of the Twitch and Mixer websites.

Is there a better alternative out there?

It won't appeal to the Fortnite builders out there. Neither will it reach those who enjoy the slower pace and survival-oriented practicality of something like PUBG. But if you are looking for a serious shooter with a real shine, this is the one for you.

How long it will take?

Hopefully as long as the other big names in the game right now. Both modes appear to be specifically designed for spectator sports where the money should flow into development. Given the experience that existing Call of Duty weapons and maps are used to flesh this out, we can't be sure how much new content will come, but since Activision is always working hard on the next iteration of the series we hope that Warzone will borrow from his brothers in the coming years.

Should you buy it

It's free. Its value as a product cannot be compared. Given that trying the closest competitor (PUBG) still costs a penny or two, this is a no-brainer for those who want to take part in the latest and greatest role. The only thing that stands in your way is a long download.

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