Call of Duty: Black Ops 4 is a thrilling installment in the legendary first-person shooter franchise. Developed by Treyarch and released by Activision, BO4 dropped in October 2018, shifting expectations with bold changes. From the lack of a traditional campaign to the addition of a Battle Royale mode, this entry stirred both excitement and controversy. But what makes it stand out? Let’s explore.
Is There a Campaign Mode in Black Ops 4?
No, Call of Duty: Black Ops 4 is the first title in the series to exclude a single-player story campaign. Instead, the developers focused on delivering a more expansive multiplayer experience. However, there are solo tutorials called “Specialist HQ” which introduce players to the game’s characters and lore in short, narrative-driven missions.
What is Blackout Mode?
Blackout is the Battle Royale mode of BO4. It combines classic Call of Duty gunplay with massive open-world gameplay. Players skydive into the map, scavenge for weapons, and compete to be the last one standing. Blackout was Treyarch’s answer to Fortnite and PUBG, and it successfully merged tactical action with COD’s signature feel.
What Makes Zombies Mode Unique?
BO4 takes the beloved Zombies mode to the next level. At launch, it included three unique maps: “IX,” “Voyage of Despair,” and “Blood of the Dead”—each packed with hidden lore, elaborate puzzles, and increasingly difficult waves of undead. The mode supports both solo and co-op play, making it a perfect pick for those who love horror and challenge.
How Does Multiplayer Work in BO4?
The multiplayer mode in Call of Duty: Black Ops 4 is fast-paced, tactical, and team-focused. It features a health bar (no more health regeneration), specialist abilities, and classic weapon customization. Maps are designed for strategic combat and gunplay is more balanced. It also emphasizes teamwork and communication over lone-wolf strategies.
Does Black Ops 4 Support Split-Screen or Local Multiplayer?
Yes. BO4 allows split-screen play in both Zombies and Multiplayer modes on console. Players can team up on the same screen, making it a great choice for couch gaming with friends or family.
Are There Regular Updates and Events?
At launch and in the months following, BO4 received seasonal events, new weapons, cosmetics, and limited-time modes. Treyarch kept the community engaged with content drops and community challenges. Though updates slowed over time, the legacy content remains accessible and enjoyable.
How Big is the Download Size?
The initial download size for Call of Duty: Black Ops 4 is around 80–100 GB, depending on the platform and updates. It’s recommended to have at least 120 GB free space to ensure smooth installation and future updates.
Can I Play Without Internet?
While BO4 does not feature a traditional campaign, some parts like Zombies mode can be played offline. However, most content—including Blackout and online multiplayer—requires an internet connection.
Final Verdict: Is BO4 Worth It in 2025?
Despite being a 2018 release, Call of Duty: Black Ops 4 still holds up thanks to its dynamic gameplay, intense multiplayer, and deep Zombies experience. The absence of a campaign may not suit story-lovers, but competitive players will appreciate its refined mechanics. If you’re after online action, split-screen fun, or zombie slaying chaos, BO4 is a strong pick.
