A recent age rating from the ESRB for Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 indicates a likely return of the contentious “Carry Forward” feature. This functionality allows players to transfer their cosmetic items, such as weapon skins and operator outfits, from one installment to the next.
Given that two Black Ops titles are launching in succession, it is not shocking that Activision would permit players to carry their purchases forward. However, some fans of Black Ops 6 have expressed their dissatisfaction with this feature.
Earlier in mid-2023, just ahead of the Modern Warfare 3 release, Activision introduced the Carry Forward feature, allowing players to move their cosmetic items from Modern Warfare 2 to its successor. Unfortunately, this feature was absent during the launch of Black Ops 6 in 2024, meaning that all cosmetic items were restricted to Modern Warfare 3.
Now that Black Ops 7 is on the way, fans are anxious to see if Activision will reinstate this feature, which could potentially allow outlandish operator skins to persist in the gameplay. The ESRB’s new rating for Black Ops 7 surprises no one, as it once again carries an M for mature label.
The accompanying description offers hints about the game’s content, noting gruesome hallucinations and the return of executions. Interestingly, it mentions a finishing move involving inhaling marijuana from a bong-like attachment to a rifle, a feature from Black Ops 6.
If this move is also available in Black Ops 7, it implies that Carry Forward may indeed be returning. However, the community appears divided on this decision.
Some players argue that Black Ops 6 introduced unrealistic and extravagant skins that don’t fit the serious tone of a military shooter. Others believe that allowing players to keep items they’ve purchased is a fair move.
“Carry forward should only be for Warzone,” stated one Twitter user, while another expressed, “If I paid for skins, I want them to carry forward.” Despite the consumer-friendly nature of Carry Forward, many fans are weary of the cartoonish aesthetics that dominate the franchise.
Recent rumors suggest that Activision has been reevaluating its approach to cosmetics, responding to criticism about the game appearing “stupid” due to bizarre collaborations. However, the successful financial results from these collaborations pose a challenge in shifting away from such designs.