Should You Choose Black Ops 6 or Vanguard? The Ultimate Call of Duty Showdown

If you're a fan of the Call of Duty franchise, the decision of which game to invest in can be a tough one, especially with the ongoing evolution of the series. 

Recently, two major titles have sparked this dilemma for many gamers. Black Ops 6 (or, more accurately, the latest iteration of the Black Ops franchise) and Call of Duty. Vanguard. 

While there's no official game titled Black Ops 6, the Black Ops series has consistently been a fan favorite, and many players are eager to see what's next for this sub-series. 

On the other hand, Vanguard, the 2021 installment of Call of Duty, has its own set of strengths and unique features. 

But which one should you buy? Here’s an in-depth comparison to help you decide.

What’s the Deal with "Black Ops 6"?

First, let’s clear up the confusion surrounding Black Ops 6. 

Currently, the most recent game in the Black Ops series is Call of Duty, Black Ops Cold War, released in 2020. 

Cold War continues the beloved Black Ops tradition, focusing on the high-stakes Cold War era during the 1980s. 

With the rumors of Black Ops 6 circulating, it’s important to note that as of now, there’s been no official announcement for a new entry in the Black Ops sub-series. 

So, if you’re wondering whether to wait for Black Ops 6, you might be waiting a while. 

In the meantime, Cold War remains the latest iteration in the series.

A Look at Call of Duty Vanguard (2021)

Call of Duty Vanguard dropped in 2021, bringing the Call of Duty franchise back to its roots by focusing on World War II, but with a modern twist. 

In Vanguard, you get to experience intense combat across multiple fronts of WWII, from the Pacific to Europe, offering a blend of real-world historical events and fictionalized action. The game features several key components, including.

1. Campaign

The single-player campaign in Vanguard offers an exciting and fast-paced narrative, with each mission set in a different theater of WWII. 

The story focuses on a group of soldiers in elite special forces units, diving into intense action while highlighting lesser-known aspects of the war. 

If you're a fan of historical shooters but want some fictionalized action to keep things engaging, Vanguard delivers that balance.

2. Multiplayer

Multiplayer remains one of the main draws of Vanguard, with a variety of modes, maps, and customization options. 

Expect fast-paced action with a selection of iconic WWII weapons and more modern features like Gunsmith weapon customization and destructible environments in certain maps.

If you're a fan of classic Call of Duty multiplayer but want a WWII setting, Vanguard might be a solid choice.

3. Zombies

In addition to the campaign and multiplayer, Vanguard features a Zombies mode developed by Treyarch. 

Set in the Black Ops universe, it introduces a supernatural storyline filled with hordes of the undead, along with new mechanics and features for co-op gameplay. 

If Zombies is a must-have for you, Vanguard delivers a fun and action-packed experience.

Why Choose Call of Duty 

Black Ops Cold War?

Although we’re not dealing with Black Ops 6 yet, if you’re looking for a Black Ops experience, Black Ops Cold War is your best bet. 

The game takes place during the Cold War era, around the 1980s, and focuses on espionage, covert operations, and global political tensions. 

Here's what makes it a standout

1. Campaign

The campaign in the Cold War offers an engaging, branching storyline that explores conspiracy theories and covert operations. 

You play as a CIA operative tasked with capturing a key figure in the Cold War, with various decisions influencing the outcome. 

This gives it a slightly more modern flavor compared to Vanguard, which focuses on historical WWII combat.

2. Multiplayer

Cold War brings the classic Black Ops multiplayer action that players know and love, featuring fast-paced, close-quarters combat. 

The multiplayer is packed with new and returning modes, maps, and weapons. 

If you're looking for a game that offers both arcade-like fun and tactical team-based gameplay, Cold War delivers that, plus a more customizable experience thanks to its Gunsmith system.

3. Zombies Mode

The Zombies mode in Cold War is arguably one of its best features. It continues the popular storylines of previous Black Ops titles but with new mechanics and creative map designs. 

Whether you’re a solo player or prefer co-op, Cold War Zombies is a standout experience, offering tons of replayability.

Key Differences to Consider

• Setting Vanguard focuses on the gritty, historic backdrop of WWII, while Cold War dives into the political intrigue and espionage of the 1980s Cold War. 
• If you’re into historical realism, Vanguard might appeal more to you, but if you prefer the tension and atmosphere of the 1980s with a modern touch, Cold War might be more your style.
• Gameplay While both games offer solid campaigns and multiplayer modes, Vanguard brings in destructible environments and more realistic WWII combat. 
• In contrast, the Cold War is faster-paced with more emphasis on arcade action and modern weaponry.
• Zombies Both games have excellent Zombies modes, but if you’re a hardcore fan of the Black Ops Zombies lore, Cold War continues that saga with plenty of fresh content. 
• However, Vanguard offers a supernatural twist, which could appeal to those seeking a new twist on the formula.

Black Ops 6 Worth Buying? Honest Opinion