During the multiplayer mode tests, the Capture the Flag mode was evaluated in 6v6 matches. In this format, each team of six players aims to invade the opposing territory, capture the flag, and return it to their base. Even with this single experience, several positive points and aspects requiring attention were noted.
To evaluate the new platform, the test was conducted directly on the Nintendo Switch 2. The game size is just under 30GB, which is considered adequate for current standards. Playing without using the docking station, directly on the console, the frame rate reached 60FPS. The experience was smooth, without interruptions or failures during matches, which represents a significant positive point for a competitive FPS in portable mode.
Both mouse mode, recommended by the game itself, and the use of the attached Joy-Con were tested. Although it is a matter of personal preference, the author adapted better to the Joy-Con. Mouse mode demonstrated high sensitivity, which is crucial in a game that demands precision and speed. It would be possible to improve the sensitivity adjustment, but with only two hours of testing, the focus was directed to other elements. Furthermore, the mouse buttons differ from a standard mouse, presenting positions considered more difficult to handle. In contrast, the Joy-Con offered a good response to commands, without delays that could compromise the game's dynamics.
The absence of a matchmaking system segmented by console was observed, resulting in games with players from PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. This integration can create hardware advantages for certain players, such as higher FPS, superior settings, and richer visual details. At times, difficulty in locating enemies was perceptible.
The title Modern Warfare 4 provides a good sense of immersion in various areas. A highlight was the sound quality, as, depending on the headphones used, it is possible to clearly discern the direction of the shots, aiding in combat reading. Reports from PC players indicated that the sound of footsteps was excessively loud, an issue that Infinity Ward itself recognized and began adjusting in a patch during the weekend of testing. On the Switch 2, using headphones, this annoyance was not felt, but it remains a point to monitor.
Regarding ballistic accuracy, the experience was satisfactory. The aim system without random dispersion, called 'Ballistic Authority,' presented minimal deviation between the aimed point and the actual projectile impact, which especially benefits less experienced players. On the other hand, the main point of attention was the TTK (time to kill), which proved to be very low, making matches fast and slightly unbalanced. The good news is that Infinity Ward publicly communicated that they are working to raise the minimum TTK of several weapons during the beta, thus having a real possibility of correction before launch.
There was diversity in the variety of weaponry available on the maps, although the author did not explore many customization options. Since the campaign mode could not be accessed during the test, it is supplemented with information from other beta reviews: the campaign adopts a more realistic and contemporary tone, with good art direction and well-elaborated scenes, but the adversaries' artificial intelligence was described as basic and repetitive, even at high difficulty levels, following a very linear structure.
During the tests, there were occurrences of inactivity disconnections, which was considered unusual, given that the game was being played normally. It is not possible to determine if this was an inherent behavior of the beta or internet connection instability, but the event occurred approximately three times, even with continuous movement in the game.
Despite recognizing the need for more practice, the overall fluidity of the game and the experience provided on the Nintendo Switch 2 were positive. However, it is not possible to state with complete certainty due to the low number of players on the same platform during matches, and more powerful machines seem to have an advantage in cross-matchmaking.
Although visual details could not be recorded, for those awaiting updates in Call of Duty and wishing to relive the atmosphere of Modern Warfare, the experience will be enjoyable. The next tests, now in open beta (not requiring a code or pre-order), will take place from August 28th to September 1st. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 will officially launch on October 23rd, with suggested prices starting from R$ 299 on PC and R$ 349 on consoles.