"Tom Richardson,BBC Newsbeat and Activision There are some things you can always rely on, and a new Call of Duty game coming out each year is one of them. As one of the best-known names in video games, it's a series that needs little introduction. According to publisher Activision, it's sold an estimated 500 million copies, a movie adaptation is on the way, and despite having launched in 2003 it still reliably appears at - or near - the top of the annual bestseller charts."
"They're a frequent source of brand crossovers, and previous designs have been based on stars including footballer Neymar Jr, streamer NickMercs and rapper Nicki Minaj. But when Activision revealed skins based on 90s cartoon characters Beavis and Butthead earlier this year, there was a backlash. Fans accused the company of trying to mimic Fortnite, the ever-popular multiplayer game famous for its sometimes unlikely crossovers, which have included pop star Sabrina Carpenter and an AI-voiced Darth Vader in 2025."
Call of Duty remains a perennial bestseller since 2003, with estimated sales around 500 million copies and a movie adaptation planned. Competition from Battlefield 6 has drawn player attention away, while long-time fans express concern that the series is losing touch with its roots. Operator skins and high-profile crossovers have included Neymar Jr, NickMercs and Nicki Minaj. A reveal of Beavis and Butthead skins provoked backlash, with critics accusing the company of mimicking Fortnite's crossover approach. Activision said fan feedback "hit home" and that it took identity complaints seriously. Microsoft raised Game Pass prices by 20%, provoking further player anger.
Read at www.bbc.com
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