Call of Duty: Modern Warfare had its multiplayer reveal this week, and perhaps the biggest talking point was the lack of a mini-map.
Infinity Ward’s decision to ditch the mini-map for Modern Warfare marks a significant change for the series. In its place is a Skyrim-style compass set at the top of the screen.
I played a handful of hours of competitive multiplayer at Activision’s preview event in Los Angeles this week, and initially found it hard to adjust to the lack of a mini-map.
My muscle memory had trained me to glance at the mini-map every few seconds to get a jump on my enemies. And while the compass does flag enemies, it does not offer the same level of awareness.
Call of Duty®: Modern Warfare® | Multiplayer Reveal Trailer Watch on YouTube
Now the dust has settled on the multiplayer reveal, Call of Duty fans are debating the lack of a mini-map in Modern Warfare – and it’s sparked a vociferous debate. Most are lamenting the loss of the mini-map, saying they’re concerned it’ll encourage things like campers and slower, more cautious play. Others supporting the move say it’ll encourage map awareness and increase the skill ceiling of the competitive multiplayer experience.