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The Return of Call of Duty and Its Market Challenges

This year’s edition of the highly popular series is set to encounter fresh competition from Battlefield 6.

The release of a new Call of Duty game has become an annual tradition, with the series consistently delivering new installments.

Screenshot shows a photo-realistic rendering of Kiernan Shipka's character, dimly lit, with a stern expression on her face. She wears a high-necked jacket and an earpiece with a microphone stretching towards her mouth.
Actress Kiernan Shipka takes a central role in Black Ops 7's campaign

As a household name in the gaming industry, the Call of Duty franchise requires minimal introduction, given its widespread recognition.

With estimated sales of 500 million copies, an upcoming movie adaptation, and a history of topping annual bestseller charts since its launch in 2003, publisher Activision can attest to the series' enduring popularity.

However, this year's release may face significant competition from other top-tier games.

Electronic Arts' Battlefield 6 has garnered substantial attention, potentially drawing focus away from Call of Duty.

Long-time fans of the series have expressed concerns that Call of Duty may be straying from its roots, prompting the developers to address these worries.

The timing of the new Call of Duty release coincides with the developers' efforts to respond to fan concerns about the series' direction.

The game has long offered players the option to purchase customizable "operator skins" that alter their character's appearance.

These skins have been the subject of various brand collaborations, featuring designs inspired by celebrities such as Neymar Jr, NickMercs, and Nicki Minaj.

However, the introduction of skins based on the 90s cartoon characters Beavis and Butthead earlier this year sparked a negative reaction from fans.

Fans criticized the move, accusing the company of attempting to emulate Fortnite's approach to crossovers, which have included collaborations with Sabrina Carpenter and an AI-voiced Darth Vader in 2025.

Activision acknowledged the feedback, stating that they took the concerns about the series losing its identity seriously.

The release of the new game also follows Microsoft's decision to increase the price of its Game Pass subscription service by 20%, a move that has angered many players.

In a conversation with BBC News, lead producer Natalie Pohorski and senior comms director Stephanie Snowdon highlighted the single-player story campaign in Black Ops 7.

Screenshot shows a squad of four soldiers in a small boat approaching a large yacht. In the background, the nighttime skyline of a city lined by skyscrapers is visible.
Black Ops games thrust players into a world of espionage and conspiracy

The narrative mode in Battlefield 6 received underwhelming reviews, whereas Call of Duty is known for crafting explosive set pieces in its story campaigns.

The Black Ops series typically features Hollywood-style stories of secret agents uncovering large-scale conspiracies.

Black Ops 7 is a direct sequel to 2012's Black Ops 2, set in 2035, and revolves around a global terrorist threat and a mysterious tech company.

Natalie notes that the "Black Ops identity" allows developers to explore themes that other games cannot.

"There are many interesting and timeless ideas to explore, with endless possibilities," she says.

"We also ask questions that transcend time, such as questions of trust and perception."

As a major player in the gaming industry, Activision has the ability to attract high-profile talent to its Call of Duty projects.

A screenshot shows a realistic rendering of actor Milo Ventimiglia's character wearing an elaborate military uniform and body armour. He's looking up, his face illuminated by the glow of a screen, as his squadmates look on in the background.
Milo Ventimiglia takes over the role of hero David Mason

For Black Ops 7, this includes Kiernan Shipka, known for her role in Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, and Milo Ventimiglia, star of This Is Us.

Kiernan is aware of the significant following and expectations surrounding Call of Duty.

She expressed enthusiasm about being involved in the project, stating that it was "more exciting than anything."

"I love being part of a fandom," she says.

"When something garners such passion from fans over time, it's a testament to its appeal."

"The reaction to our work will be what it will be."

"I try not to let external expectations influence my approach."

As a former Call of Duty player, Milo is also aware of the standards that fans have for the series.

"I hope I can meet those expectations," he says.

When asked about potential fatigue among players due to the annual releases, Milo believes that Black Ops 7 will exceed expectations.

"This installment surpasses the others in terms of storytelling and direction," he says.

While the single-player campaigns are a significant aspect of Call of Duty, the series' long-term success can be attributed to the popularity of its multiplayer modes.

The performance of Black Ops 7 will ultimately be judged on the success of its multiplayer component.

When asked if the impressive player numbers of Battlefield influence their development approach, Natalie and Stephanie emphasized their focus on creating the best possible game.

Regarding what sets Call of Duty apart from Battlefield, Stephanie highlighted the "variety and volume" of experiences offered by the series.

"More broadly, games serve as a way for people to connect and have fun," she says.

"Games have facilitated meaningful relationships in my life, and I hope they continue to do so for others."

"I envision a future where more people come together to play games, fostering connections and relationships."

Tune in to Newsbeat at 12:45 and 17:45 on weekdays, or listen to previous episodes.

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Tottenham set to appoint temporary boss ahead of permanent summer hire

Tottenham expect to appoint an interim manager to oversee the team for the rest of the season by this weekend, with plans to make a permanent appointment in the summer.

The task of finding a successor to Thomas Frank has fallen to Johan Lange and Vinai Venkatesham, who are overseeing the selection process.

Tottenham Hotspur intends to appoint an interim manager to see out the current season, with a view to making a more permanent appointment during the summer months.

The dismissal of Thomas Frank occurred earlier this week, at a time when the team was five points clear of the relegation zone.

According to sources close to BBC Sport, Tottenham Hotspur is expected to finalize an agreement with an interim manager before the team resumes training on Monday.

Following their early exit from the FA Cup in the third round, Tottenham has a nine-day break before facing Arsenal in the north London derby on February 22.

With no match scheduled for this weekend, the first-team squad has been given a brief break and is set to return to training on Monday.

The club is aware that the mid-season transfer window presents limited options, and it may be more feasible to secure a long-term manager at the end of the campaign.

An in-depth examination of Thomas Frank's tenure reveals the challenges he faced in winning over players and fans.

A closer look at Frank's time at Tottenham highlights the risks involved in his appointment and the ultimate failure of his tenure.

Although the search for an interim manager is still ongoing, the successful candidate will be considered for the permanent position if they perform well in the role.

Former Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino is a potential candidate to take the reins on a permanent basis, particularly since his contract with the US men's national team is set to expire after the World Cup this summer.

Another candidate being considered is Roberto De Zerbi, who recently parted ways with French club Marseille by mutual consent.

For the latest news, analysis, and fan perspectives on Tottenham, please refer to our dedicated section.

If you have any questions about Tottenham, feel free to ask and we will do our best to provide you with the information you are looking for.

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Aberdeen to unveil new manager soon with Docherty set to take assistant role

Aberdeen has bolstered its interim management team with the return of Tony Docherty, who previously served as an assistant manager, to support Peter Leven, amid anticipation of a permanent appointment announcement that sporting director Lutz Pfannenstiel had indicated would be made “imminently”.

Ross County parted ways with Tony Docherty in December, and he has now taken on a new role.

Aberdeen have brought in former assistant manager Tony Docherty to support Peter Leven's interim management team, despite sporting director Lutz Pfannenstiel indicating that a permanent appointment was imminent.

Docherty's return to Aberdeen comes just a week after Eirik Horneland, a former coach of Rosenborg, Brann, and Saint-Etienne, emerged as a top contender to succeed Jimmy Thelin, who was sacked earlier.

As Aberdeen delays making a full-time appointment, speculation surrounding Eirik Horneland's availability has arisen, with reports suggesting the 50-year-old Norwegian may not be able to take on the role until summer.

Since Jimmy Thelin's dismissal on January 4, Lutz Pfannenstiel has been leading the search for a replacement, and he confirmed that Tony Docherty would be joining the team to assist Peter Leven during the interim period.

Dundee Utd are facing a challenging schedule, with four matches in 14 days set to take place on a weather-affected pitch.

According to Stavrum, Eirik Horneland's coaching style, characterized by intensity, would be a good fit for Aberdeen.

Tony Docherty initially joined Aberdeen in 2013 as part of Derek McInnes' management team and spent eight years at the club.

Before his stint at Aberdeen, Docherty served as McInnes' assistant at Kilmarnock and later managed Dundee and Ross County, but his time at Ross County ended in December when he was let go with the team at the bottom of the Championship.

Lutz Pfannenstiel praised Tony Docherty's experience, stating that he has a deep understanding of the club and will be a valuable asset during the transition period.

Pfannenstiel highlighted Docherty's extensive knowledge of the Scottish Premiership, gained through his experience as both a coach and manager, which will be beneficial to the team in the short term.

The club's managerial search is nearing its conclusion, and an announcement regarding the new head coach is expected soon, according to Pfannenstiel.

Peter Leven, who is serving as caretaker manager for the third time, expressed his enthusiasm for Tony Docherty's appointment.

Leven welcomed Docherty's return, stating that his experience will be a significant boost to the team, particularly during the upcoming matches.

Leven noted that Docherty was eager to join the team and that his presence will provide valuable support during both training sessions and matches.

Eirik Horneland left his position at Saint-Etienne in early February, at which point his team was fourth in France's second tier.

If Aberdeen decides to wait until summer for Horneland to take over, it will be similar to the six-month delay that occurred when Jimmy Thelin joined the club from Elfsborg in the summer of 2024.

For the latest news, analysis, and fan perspectives on Aberdeen, visit our dedicated page.

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Peter Murrell faces allegations of misusing £459,000 in funds over 12 years

Allegations have been made that he bought various items, such as luxury goods, jewellery, cosmetics, two cars and a motorhome, in an improper manner.

Peter Murrell, the former chief executive of the Scottish National Party, is facing allegations of embezzling £459,000 from the party over a 12-year period.

Peter Murrell looking off to his right while sitting in a room. He is wearing a black suit, white shirt and dark coloured tie.
Peter Murrell is due to appear in court next Friday for a preliminary hearing

An indictment document obtained by BBC News outlines the case against Murrell, who is the estranged husband of former Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon.

The alleged embezzlement is said to have occurred between August 2010 and January 2023, according to the indictment.

It is claimed that Murrell used party funds to purchase luxury items, including jewellery, cosmetics, and vehicles, such as two cars and a motorhome.

The Scottish Sun was the first to report on the details of the indictment.

A preliminary hearing in the case is scheduled to take place at the High Court in Glasgow on Friday, 20 February, where Murrell is expected to appear.

During his initial court appearance at Edinburgh Sheriff Court, Murrell made no plea and was subsequently granted bail.

Murrell's arrest in 2023 was part of Operation Branchform, a police investigation into the SNP's funding and finances, which led to him being charged with embezzlement in April 2024.

A police van and a police officer outside Murrell's home in April 2023.
Murrell was arrested in 2023 as part of a probe into the SNP's finances

Although Sturgeon was questioned by police as part of the investigation, she is no longer considered a suspect.

BBC News has obtained a copy of the indictment against Murrell ahead of his upcoming court appearance.

It is worth noting that the indictment is subject to change until the case is heard in court and may be amended throughout the judicial process.

The indictment alleges that Murrell purchased a £124,550 motorhome for personal use and created false documents to justify the expense as a legitimate party expenditure.

Murrell is also accused of using £57,500 of party funds to buy a Jaguar I-PACE car in 2019, and falsifying an invoice to conceal the true nature of the purchase.

Furthermore, it is alleged that when the Jaguar was sold in 2021, Murrell deposited more than £47,000 into his personal bank account.

The indictment also claims that Murrell embezzled £16,489 from the SNP to partially fund the purchase of a Volkswagen Golf in 2016.

A list of over 80 retailers is included in the indictment, where Murrell allegedly made purchases totalling more than £159,000 between 2014 and 2022, using party credit or charge cards for personal expenses.

The retailers named in the indictment include Harrods, the Royal Mint, John Lewis, Homebase, and Argos, among others.

It is alleged that Murrell used SNP credit or charge cards to make these purchases and then inserted false or inaccurate accounting codes and descriptions into the party's accounting systems.

The indictment also accuses Murrell of making purchases worth over £81,600 through Amazon using the same method.

Murrell served as the SNP's chief executive for 22 years before his departure.

Murrell and Sturgeon were married in 2010, but announced their separation in January 2025, after being together for many years.

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