Call of Duty: WWII Review

Call of Duty: WWII, developed by Sledgehammer Games and published by Activision, marked a significant pivot for the franchise. Released on the PlayStation 4 (PS4) in 2017, it famously abandoned the futuristic settings of previous entries to return to the visceral, boots-on-the-ground combat of World War II. This CoD WWII PS4 review explores its attempt to deliver an authentic and impactful historical shooter experience.

Gameplay: Grounded Combat and Strategic Multiplayer

The single-player campaign of Call of Duty: WWII on the PS4 is a gritty and emotional journey through the European theater of World War II. Players follow Private Ronald “Red” Daniels and his squad, participating in iconic battles like D-Day and the Battle of the Bulge. The campaign emphasizes squad cohesion, with unique mechanics allowing players to call on squadmates for ammo, health packs, and enemy spotting, fostering a sense of teamwork rather than lone-wolf heroism. The narrative is well-paced, delivering intense set-pieces and a compelling human story.

The multiplayer returned to a more traditional, grounded style of combat, focusing on classic movement and gunplay. The new “Divisions” system replaced the pick-10 system, offering distinct infantry types with unique abilities and training. “War Mode” was a standout addition, providing objective-based, multi-stage battles that encouraged teamwork and strategic play over simple kill counts. The “Headquarters” social space offered a unique hub for players to interact, practice, and engage in mini-games. The overall FPS gameplay felt tight and responsive on the PlayStation 4.

• Gritty and emotional single-player campaign
• Squad-focused mechanics for health and ammo
• “Boots-on-the-ground” multiplayer combat
• Innovative “Divisions” system
• Objective-based “War Mode” for strategic play
• “Headquarters” social hub for player interaction

Graphics and Sound: Visceral Immersion

Visually, Call of Duty: WWII is stunning on the PS4. The game boasts incredibly realistic graphics, with meticulous attention to historical detail in weapons, uniforms, and environments. The facial animations are particularly impressive, conveying the raw emotion of the characters. The war-torn landscapes and battlefields are rendered with a grim beauty that enhances the game’s immersive qualities.

The sound design is exceptional. Every gunshot, explosion, and bullet whiz creates a truly visceral and chaotic battlefield experience. The authentic weapon sounds and the powerful orchestral score contribute significantly to the game’s atmosphere, pulling players directly into the heart of the conflict.

Zombies Mode: A Darker, More Horrific Take

The cooperative Zombies mode in WWII took a darker, more horrific turn compared to previous iterations. Set in a twisted, occult-infused version of World War II, it offered a genuinely terrifying experience with grotesque enemies and intricate Easter eggs. This mode provided a fantastic co-op challenge for players looking for a break from the competitive multiplayer.

Legacy: A Welcome Return

Call of Duty: WWII was largely well-received for its return to the series’ historical roots. It delivered a strong campaign, engaging multiplayer, and a compelling Zombies mode, proving that the franchise could thrive without futuristic gimmicks. It remains a popular entry for fans who prefer a more grounded military shooter.

Is Call of Duty: WWII on PS4 Worth Playing Today?

Absolutely. Call of Duty: WWII on PS4 is still a highly recommended FPS. Its intense single-player campaign offers a powerful and emotional story, while the multiplayer provides a solid boots-on-the-ground experience. For fans of World War II games and a more realistic shooter, this classic CoD is a must-play on the PlayStation 4.