No real surprise there, if a power fantasy where you summarily dispatch a dictator in the first five minutes (or dictator’s body double, but who’s counting) and get to meet JFK won’t sell, nothing will. Just put the fact that this thing sold more than Zelda: Ocarina of Time, Planescape Torment, Super Mario Galaxy, and basically any game with a heart and/or a brain ever made out of your thoughts. Now you know just how record store hipsters feel when X-Factor comes on.
This little nugget of information came by way of NPD, who have also released their list of top ten best selling games for the month.
- Call of Duty: Black Ops
- Marvel vs Capcom 3: Fate of Two Worlds
- Just Dance 2
- NBA 2K11
- Dead Space 2
- Zumba Fitness: Join the Party
- Bulletstorm
- Killzone 3
- Michael Jackson: The Experience
- Mario Sports Mix
The Success of Call of Duty: Black Ops
The success of Call of Duty: Black Ops is a testament to the franchise’s enduring appeal and the effective marketing strategies employed by Activision. The game’s gripping storyline, which takes players through various Cold War-era missions, combined with its robust multiplayer mode, has captivated millions of gamers worldwide. The inclusion of historical figures like JFK adds a layer of intrigue and excitement, making the game not just a shooter but a narrative experience.
Moreover, the game’s success can be attributed to its high production values, engaging gameplay mechanics, and the continuous support from the developers in the form of updates and downloadable content (DLC). The multiplayer mode, in particular, has been a significant draw, offering a variety of maps, weapons, and game modes that keep players coming back for more.
Comparing to Other Best Sellers
When comparing Call of Duty: Black Ops to other best-selling games, it’s clear that the game has set a new benchmark in the industry. For instance, Marvel vs Capcom 3: Fate of Two Worlds, which holds the second spot on the NPD list, is a beloved fighting game that brings together characters from two iconic universes. However, it lacks the expansive single-player campaign and the depth of multiplayer options that Black Ops offers.
Just Dance 2, another top seller, appeals to a different demographic with its fun and interactive dance routines. While it has its own dedicated fan base, it doesn’t offer the same level of narrative engagement or competitive multiplayer experience as Black Ops.
NBA 2K11 and Dead Space 2, both critically acclaimed games, also made it to the top ten list. NBA 2K11 is renowned for its realistic basketball simulation, while Dead Space 2 is celebrated for its intense horror elements. Despite their strengths, neither game has managed to achieve the same commercial success as Black Ops.
I imagine champagne must be flowing at Treyarch HQ, seeing how their game is finally the gold standard FPS cash-cow after all the years of being one-upped by Infinity Ward. Of course, they need to top themselves this time around with Modern Warfare 3, but while not very modern, I understand the Lincoln assassination is wide open for the game treatment.
The success of Call of Duty: Black Ops is not just a win for Treyarch but also for the entire Call of Duty franchise. It demonstrates the power of combining compelling storytelling with engaging gameplay mechanics and robust multiplayer options. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how future titles in the series build upon this success.
Source Eurogamer
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