Los Angeles, California — Microsoft’s Activision is set to revamp its iconic “Call of Duty” franchise with an unprecedented release, announcing that “Call of Duty: Black Ops 7” will follow closely on the heels of its predecessor. The game was revealed during the Xbox Games Showcase 2025, a bold move that marks the first time in the franchise’s history that two “Black Ops” editions will be launched in succession.
The upcoming title, scheduled for a 2035 setting, thrusts players into a world four decades beyond the narrative of “Black Ops 6.” It promises a thrilling new storyline, featuring a variety of distinguished actors. Voice talents Milo Ventimiglia, Kiernan Shipka, and Michael Rooker will lend their voices and physical portrayals to key characters. Ventimiglia takes on the role of David Mason, a character whose legacy dates back to “Black Ops 2.” Shipka joins the cast as Emma Kagan, while Rooker returns to reprise his role as Mike Harper.
Though this casting announcement coincides with an ongoing strike by SAG-AFTRA affecting major video game publishers, sources confirm that “Black Ops 7” remains unaffected. Activision has indicated that work on the title has continued unabated, allowing the game to move forward as planned.
Marketing chief Tyler Bahl described Ventimiglia’s casting as pivotal, suggesting that the actor’s portrayal of Mason will resonate with longtime fans of the series. “David Mason is an iconic character and a favorite among our player base,” Bahl noted. He also expressed enthusiasm about Shipka’s character, Emma Kagan, who is presented as a powerful CEO of a group called The Guild. Rooker’s return adds to the excitement, rekindling fond memories for fans of earlier installments.
According to the official game description, “Call of Duty: Black Ops 7” aims to provide a groundbreaking experience. Players will confront a chaotic world plagued by conflicts and psychological warfare, a theme echoing the challenges faced in earlier games. The narrative will focus on Mason and his team battling an adversary that manipulates fear as a weapon, offering players a new dimension of gameplay and storytelling.
The game will feature a cooperative campaign mode and will also incorporate round-based zombies, maintaining a tradition that has become a hallmark of the “Black Ops” series. Players can expect to engage in combat utilizing advanced technology while navigating the intricate storyline.
“Black Ops 7” is set to launch on multiple platforms, including Xbox Series X and S, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, and PC through Xbox PC, Battle.net, and Steam. Xbox’s Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass will facilitate immediate access upon release, a strategic move aimed at enhancing player engagement.
Bahl hinted at a revolutionary marketing approach, suggesting that the promotion of the game will be unlike any typical rollout. He emphasized the intention to surprise players without traditional pre-launch promotions, promising a build-up reminiscent of a high-profile album release.
As anticipation grows, the teaser trailer for “Call of Duty: Black Ops 7” has already drawn attention, setting the stage for another thrilling chapter in the series that has defined the first-person shooter genre for years.
