Summary
A new report from a reputable leaker hints at potential bad news for the future ofCall of Duty:Warzone, particularly impacting the game’s 2026 schedule. This follows the recent delay of Season 3 forCall of Duty: WarzoneandBlack Ops 6, raising concerns among fans of the free-to-play battle royale.
The evolution of theCall of Dutyfranchise has seen constant shifts in content, including maps, weapons, modes, and features. In many cases, this content is either reused, modified to fit different development teams’ titles, or scrapped entirely, sometimes resurfacing unexpectedly in future projects. With the introduction ofWarzone, these instances have become more frequent, primarily because its integration with premiumCall of Dutytitles has become a key selling point – especially sinceWarzoneitself remains free to play. This has occasionally causeddelays in the release of large-scaleWarzonemaps, extending the lifecycles of existing ones. In other cases, maps have been abandoned altogether. This pattern extends beyond just maps – events, weapons, modes, and other content have also faced similar treatment, either being repurposed, delayed, or left behind.
According to a report shared on Twitter by reputableCall of Dutyleaker TheGhostOfHope,Call of Duty2026 – which is reportedly being developed by Infinity Ward and set in theModern Warfareuniverse – may not include a majorupdate forWarzoneif the return of Verdansk “fails to retain current/returning players." If this scenario unfolds, it could disrupt the established schedule where content from theannual premium title is integrated intoWarzone, creating a unified experience for players. This uncertainty raises questions about the battle royale’s future.
Warzone’s Future May Be at Risk if Verdansk’s Return Falls Short
WhileWarzonehas faced delays and cancelationsin content updates, there has never been a situation as extreme as the possibility of losing integration with the premium title. Such a scenario would force players to seek alternatives to continue enjoying the game. This long-standing tradition of connectivity betweenCall of Dutytitles has remained intact sinceWarzone’s launch alongsideModern Warfare (2019), continuing through toBlack Ops 6– spanning over five years and six different games in the franchise.
To avoid this situation, the success of Verdansk’s long-awaited return toWarzonecould be crucial – something Activision appears committed to achieving. To accomplish this, the company is reportedly bringing back content from the original version of the free-to-play game, including operators, weapons, and features, aiming to recreate what many consider the game’s peak experience. Adding to the suspense,Black Ops 6andWarzone’s Season 3 has been delayedby nearly 15 days, the timeframe in which Verdansk is expected to return. This extended wait has only intensified player expectations, as many eagerly await the map’s comeback and its potential impact onWarzone’sfuture.
This situation could putthe battle royale title at a crossroads –Activision must ensureWarzone’s Verdansk update performsto maintain or grow the game’s popularity and player base. If it fails, the consequences could be significant. However, much remains uncertain, as development changes could still occur before Verdansk’s impact becomes clear and beforeCall of Duty 2026arrives.
Call of Duty: Warzone
WHERE TO PLAY
Welcome to Call of Duty®: Warzone™, the massive free-to-play combat arena which now features Urzikstan, Rebirth Island and Fortune’s Keep.Turn the Heat UpPrepare to take the battle to a new metropolis in the all-new Urzikstan map, the new big Battle Royale map. Jump in to celebrate the epic return of Rebirth Island and Fortune’s Keep, two Resurgence maps that are sure to excite veterans and newcomers alike.Loot For RewardsDiscover supply boxes and complete contracts to build your arsenal and gain a tactical advantage.A Game Pass Core subscription is not required to play Call of Duty®: Warzone™. All other online modes still require Game Pass Core.A mobile phone number may be required to be linked to your Activision account to play Call of Duty®: Warzone™.
