Downloadable content for the Call of Duty series has always been a bit of a mixed bag. In fact, you can carry that sentiment over to most titles in the FPS genre. What we often get is a few new maps, an additional weapon or two, and, if we’re lucky, a few more perks that are, for the most part, superficial. Unfortunately, the recently released Onslaught DLC for Call of Duty: Ghosts does nothing to buck this trend. For $15, what we get is essentially what I just mentioned: four new maps, two new weapons, the first chapter of the Extinction story mode and the ability to play as Michael Myers. Yes, the same one from the Halloween movies.
So, where to begin? I suppose the logical jumping off point would be the four new multiplayer maps, which come in the form of Fog, Bayview, Containment and Ignition. Most notable of these new offerings, and perhaps the most fun, too, is Fog. It’s here that you’ll have the opportunity to play as Myers (by completing a field order). When someone assumes the identity of the masked killer, that familiar theme song starts to play, signalling that there’s now an axe-wielding maniac in the game. Suddenly, everyone starts scrambling for cover.
Is it a bit gimmick-y? Perhaps, but it is a nice little touch for those who count themselves as horror fans. Couple that with a smaller, and rather spooky outdoor setting, full of long winding tunnels that make for some fun close quarter combat, and you have a solid map that shows some great creativity and passion.
Of the remaining three maps, the only other one worth mentioning is Bayview. This is another outdoor level set on a boardwalk. It’s an interesting map, too, because you’re given the ability to hop on board a trolley which continuously rides around the map. Admittedly, the trolley adds a welcome dynamic to the match but unfortunately, the level’s box-y feel means that there are several choke points and ample places for campers to set up shop. Still, I had a lot of fun on this map. It’s not perfectly balanced but for the most part, it works. There’s also the opportunity to call in an artillery strike if you complete a field order.
The remaining two maps, Containment and Ignition, are wholly forgettable. Both are bland and generic, and don’t do a whole lot to stick out. The latter is a remake of Modern Warfare 2′s Scrapyard, while the former is set in a dilapidated Mexican village. Of course, Containment and Ignition also contain little gimmicks, be it calling in a mortar strike or activating an engine that can burn your surrounding enemies. They’re fun at first, but aren’t revolutionary or game-changing.
The new weapon here, known as the Maverick (which can be used as an automatic rifle or a sniper rifle), is nothing to write home about. Some have complained of it being over-powered but personally, I haven’t found that to be the case. I used it for several rounds and quite honestly can’t find much to like about it. Perhaps it comes down to personal preference but for now, I’ll be sticking with my pimped out Honey Badger.
The last part of this DLC, which is Episode 1 of Extinction mode, should please fans who are eager to continue on with the alien killing. You’ll get a few new enemy types to fight against and, of course, a new weapon, as you battle your way through a military base in the freezing winter cold. It all culminates with a boss battle at the end which shouldn’t provide much of a challenge if you’re able to work efficiently with your team.
Ultimately, while the DLC isn’t poorly designed or anything, it’s just not worth $15. $10 might be a more reasonable price tag and while I don’t want to make a big deal over 5 whole dollars, it’s the fact that everything here (except the Fog map) just feels rather uninspired. It’s like the developers just lazily threw together some recycled/left-over material from the development process and formed some extra content. Diehards will undoubtedly get a fair amount of enjoyment from what’s offered here but for everyone else, I see no reason as to why you should be spending $15 on Call of Duty: Ghosts Onslaught.
This review is based on the Xbox One version of the DLC, which we were provided with.
