BLACK OPS 6 is kind of lying

Summary

In this video, the speaker discusses the return of the classic Prestige system in Black Ops 6, highlighting its differences from previous versions due to modern monetization strategies. While the classic Prestige allows players to relock items and grind for rewards, the introduction of purchasable bundles means players can permanently unlock weapons, potentially undermining the essence of grinding. The speaker reflects on the implications of this system for gameplay and player experience, suggesting it leans more towards 'pay for convenience' rather than outright 'pay to win'. Ultimately, they express cautious optimism about the Prestige system's revival.

Takeaways

• 😀 The classic prestige system is returning in Black Ops 6 but with some modern adaptations.
• 💡 Players are concerned that prestige might slow down their overall progression due to more complex challenges.
• 🛒 Monetization through weapon bundles allows players to permanently unlock items, potentially undermining the prestige system's original intent.
• ⚖️ There is an ongoing debate about whether the game's monetization model constitutes 'pay to win' or is simply 'pay for convenience.'
• 🔑 Purchasing bundles can provide advantages in camo challenges and weapon access, creating a disparity between paying and non-paying players.
• 🤔 The return of prestige is seen as a way to add value and prestige to player levels compared to recent shallow leveling systems.
• 📉 Concerns exist that Activision may prioritize monetization over a balanced player experience.
• 📅 Players remain skeptical about whether the prestige system will remain in future Call of Duty titles, given past changes.
• 👥 Community reactions are mixed, with some valuing the sense of achievement that comes with the prestige system.
• 🗣️ The dialogue around the prestige system reflects broader concerns in the gaming industry regarding monetization and player engagement.

Q & A

What is the main concern expressed about the prestige system in Black Ops 6?

The main concern is that the classic prestige system may undermine the grinding experience due to the modern game's monetary model, where players can permanently unlock weapons through paid bundles.

How does the prestige system differ in Black Ops 6 compared to previous games?

In Black Ops 6, while the classic prestige system is returning, players also have to deal with a more complex modern game structure that includes battle passes and paid content, which can affect progression.

What does the speaker mean by 'pay to win' in the context of Black Ops 6?

The speaker suggests that while there are elements that could be seen as 'pay to win,' such as purchasing bundles to unlock weapons, it's more accurate to call it 'pay for convenience' since it primarily impacts efficiency rather than actual gameplay advantage.

What traditional elements of the prestige system are mentioned?

The traditional elements include leveling up from 1 to 55, prestiging up to 10 times, and the experience of grinding to demonstrate commitment to the game.

What are the potential disadvantages of prestiging mentioned in the transcript?

One disadvantage is that prestiging might slow down overall progression, as players may lose access to items and have to grind for them again, which could be frustrating.

What are the implications of players purchasing bundles for gameplay?

Purchasing bundles can lead to players permanently unlocking certain weapons, allowing them to bypass the leveling grind, which some feel undermines the integrity of the prestige system.

How does the speaker view the balance between paid content and player progression?

The speaker acknowledges that while the integration of paid content into the prestige system can be seen as exploitative, it also offers a level of convenience for those who are willing to spend money to enhance their experience.

What is the speaker's perspective on the overall value of prestiging?

The speaker believes that having the classic prestige system reinstated adds a sense of value and achievement to levels and ranks, contrasting with the previous system that felt less meaningful.

What concerns does the speaker have about player retention related to the prestige system?

The speaker worries that if players who spend money on bundles find themselves losing access to purchased items upon prestiging, they might become frustrated and quit the game, which Activision wants to avoid.

What future implications does the speaker foresee regarding the prestige system?

The speaker anticipates that even if the prestige system receives positive feedback this time, there is no guarantee it will continue in future Call of Duty titles, given the franchise's history of changing systems each year.