Since its debut in 2003, the Call of Duty franchise has become one of the most successful video game series ever. With over 20 mainline entries and countless spin-offs, it can be confusing to figure out the chronological order of all these games. If you’ve ever wondered how to experience the Call of Duty story in the correct timeline, you’re in the right place. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every Call of Duty game in chronological order, helping you understand how the different timelines connect and where each game fits in the grand scheme of this iconic franchise.
Key Takeaways
- The Call of Duty franchise spans multiple timelines: WWII, Cold War, Modern Warfare, and Futuristic
- Not all games are connected in the same universe – there are separate storylines
- The franchise has evolved from WWII shooters to futuristic warfare over 20+ years
- There are over 20 mainline Call of Duty games released since 2003
- Black Ops and Modern Warfare are the two primary storylines in the franchise
- Some games exist in alternate universes or standalone timelines
Understanding the Call of Duty Timeline
The Call of Duty franchise isn’t just one continuous story. Instead, it’s made up of multiple timelines and universes that sometimes connect but often exist separately. This can make it confusing for players trying to understand the complete Call of Duty timeline. The main timelines include the WWII era games, the Black Ops universe, the Modern Warfare storyline, and several futuristic or standalone titles.
When we talk about Call of Duty games in chronological order, we’re referring to the order based on when the events in each game take place, not when they were released. This is different from release order, which simply lists games by when they came out. Understanding this difference is key to following the complete Call of Duty timeline.
WWII Era Games (1940-1945)
The Call of Duty franchise began with World War II, and this era remains one of the most popular settings in the series. These games explore historical events from the global conflict, offering gritty realism and strategic storytelling.
Call of Duty: WWII (1940-1945)
Released in 2017, this game actually begins the chronological timeline with flashbacks to 1940. The main story follows Private Ronald “Red” Daniels and his squad as they fight from Normandy to Germany in 1944-1945. This was Sledgehammer Games’ attempt to return the franchise to its roots after several years of modern and futuristic settings.
Call of Duty 2 (1941-1945)
The 2005 sequel to the original game starts in 1941 and follows soldiers from America, Britain, and the Soviet Union. This game was notable for being a launch title for the Xbox 360 and helped establish Call of Duty as a console gaming powerhouse.
Call of Duty: Vanguard (1941-1945)
Released in 2021, Vanguard tells the story of a special task force made up of soldiers from different Allied countries. While most of the game takes place in 1945, it includes flashbacks to earlier years of the war for each character.
Call of Duty (1942-1945)
The game that started it all in 2003 follows soldiers from America, Britain, and the Soviet Union during 1942-1945. This first entry established many of the elements that would define the franchise for years to come.
Call of Duty: World at War (1942-1945)
Released in 2008, this game introduced the beloved Zombies mode to the franchise. It follows American and Soviet soldiers in the Pacific and Eastern Fronts respectively, with missions ranging from 1942 to 1945.
Call of Duty 3 (1944)
The 2006 entry focuses solely on 1944, particularly the Battle of Normandy. This was the first mainline Call of Duty game not developed by Infinity Ward, marking the beginning of the franchise’s multi-studio development approach.
Cold War and Black Ops Timeline
The Black Ops series forms one of the most complex and interconnected timelines in the Call of Duty franchise. These games explore Cold War espionage, conspiracy theories, and eventually evolve into futuristic warfare.
Call of Duty: Black Ops (1961-1968)
Released in 2010, this game takes players deep into the Cold War era. You follow CIA operative Alex Mason as he tries to uncover Soviet sleeper agents through missions set between 1961 and 1968. This game introduced many fan-favorite characters and elements that would become staples of the Black Ops universe.
Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War (1981)
Set directly after the first Black Ops, this 2020 entry bridges the gap between the original and Black Ops II. You play as Russell Adler, a CIA operative tracking a Soviet spy in 1981. The game features a campaign with multiple endings based on player choices.
Call of Duty: Black Ops II (1986-1989, and 2025)
This 2012 entry was groundbreaking for its time, featuring a story that jumps between the late 1980s and a futuristic 2025. You play as Alex Mason’s son, David, as he deals with the consequences of his father’s actions while facing a new threat in the future.
Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 (1991)
The 2024 entry continues the Black Ops saga in 1991, picking up after the events of Black Ops Cold War. This game introduced the new omnimovement system and featured some of the most creative missions in the franchise’s history.
Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 (2035)
Released in 2025, this latest entry jumps forward to 2035 and sees the return of David Mason as he investigates the potential return of Raul Menendez. The game promises to be the biggest Black Ops entry yet with extensive post-launch support.
Call of Duty: Black Ops 4 (2043)
This 2018 entry is unique as it doesn’t have a traditional campaign. Set in 2043, it focuses entirely on multiplayer and the popular Zombies mode, which had evolved into a complex storyline by this point.
Call of Duty: Black Ops III (2065-2070)
The 2015 entry takes the Black Ops timeline into a cyberpunk future. Set between 2065 and 2070, this game features advanced technology, cybernetic enhancements, and a dark, twisted story that pushes the boundaries of the franchise.
Modern Warfare Storyline
The Modern Warfare series is perhaps the most beloved timeline in the Call of Duty franchise. These games focus on contemporary (or near-contemporary) military conflicts and feature some of the most iconic characters in gaming history.
Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare (1996-2011)
The 2007 game that revolutionized the franchise, moving it away from WWII and into modern settings. Set between 1996 and 2011, this game introduced Captain Price in a more prominent role and established the template for modern military shooters.
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare (2019 reboot) (1999-2019)
This 2019 reboot retells the Modern Warfare story with updated graphics and gameplay. Set between 1999 and 2019, it reimagines the characters and events of the original Modern Warfare timeline for a new generation.
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 (2016)
The 2009 sequel picks up in 2016, five years after the events of the first Modern Warfare. This game is often considered one of the best in the franchise, featuring memorable missions and an intense multiplayer experience.
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 (2016-2017)
Released in 2011, this conclusion to the original Modern Warfare trilogy takes place in 2016-2017. It brings the story of Captain Price and his team to a dramatic conclusion while delivering the fast-paced action the series is known for.
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II (2022)
This 2022 sequel to the reboot continues the Modern Warfare story in 2022. Despite being the fastest-selling Call of Duty ever, it received mixed reviews due to post-launch issues and changes to the formula.
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III (2023)
The most recent entry in the Modern Warfare timeline, released in 2023. Set in the same year, this game continues the story from Modern Warfare II and features multiplayer improvements that many fans consider the best in years.
Futuristic and Standalone Titles
Some Call of Duty games exist outside the main timelines, either in alternate universes or distant futures. These games often experiment with new mechanics and settings that push the franchise in new directions.
Call of Duty: Ghosts (2015-2027)
Released in 2013, Ghosts is set in an alternate universe where America has been devastated by an attack. The story takes place between 2015 and 2027 and follows the remnants of the U.S. military as they fight back against their enemies.
Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare (2054-2061)
The 2014 entry introduced exoskeletons and advanced movement mechanics to the franchise. Set between 2054 and 2061, this game represents a significant departure from the more realistic military settings of previous entries.
Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare (2187)
Perhaps the most futuristic entry in the franchise, this 2016 game is set in 2187 and features space combat and zero-gravity gameplay. It represents the franchise’s boldest leap into science fiction territory.
How Many Call of Duty Games Are There?
The Call of Duty franchise has grown significantly since its first release in 2003. When counting only the mainline entries with single-player campaigns, there are over 20 games in the series. However, if you include all the spin-offs, mobile games, and expansions, the number jumps to over 40 titles.
The mainline Call of Duty games include:
- 7 WWII-era games
- 7 Black Ops games
- 6 Modern Warfare games
- 3 futuristic/standalone titles
This doesn’t include the numerous mobile games, handheld versions, and the popular Warzone battle royale games that have become a major part of the franchise in recent years.
Which Call of Duty Game Should You Play First?
If you’re new to the Call of Duty franchise, you might be wondering where to start. Here are some recommendations based on what you’re looking for:
For the best story experience: Start with Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare (2007) or the Modern Warfare reboot (2019). These games offer compelling stories and introduce you to the franchise’s most beloved characters.
For the complete Black Ops experience: Begin with Call of Duty: World at War (2008), which sets up characters and story elements that continue through the Black Ops series.
For WWII history buffs: Start with the original Call of Duty (2003) or Call of Duty: WWII (2017) for the most authentic WWII experiences.
For modern gameplay: Begin with Call of Duty: Modern Warfare (2019) or Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III (2023) for the most up-to-date mechanics and features.
Remember, you don’t need to play the games in chronological order to enjoy them. Each game is designed to be accessible to new players while offering rewards for longtime fans.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the correct order to play Call of Duty games chronologically?
The correct chronological order to play Call of Duty games follows the in-game timeline rather than release order. Start with WWII-era games like Call of Duty: WWII (1940-1945), then move to Call of Duty 2 (1941-1945), followed by other WWII titles. After that, progress through the Black Ops timeline starting with Black Ops (1961-1968), then the Modern Warfare series beginning with Modern Warfare (1996-2011), and finally the futuristic titles. This order lets you experience the story as it unfolds within the game universe.
Are all Call of Duty games connected in the same timeline?
No, not all Call of Duty games exist in the same timeline or universe. The franchise consists of multiple separate storylines: the WWII era games, the Black Ops universe, the Modern Warfare storyline, and various standalone or futuristic titles. While some games have connections or references to others (like World at War setting up Black Ops), most exist as separate entities with their own continuity. This allows developers to explore different settings and stories without being constrained by previous entries.
What’s the difference between release order and chronological order in Call of Duty?
Release order lists Call of Duty games based on when they were actually released to the public, starting with the original Call of Duty in 2003 and continuing through to the most recent releases. Chronological order, on the other hand, arranges the games based on when the events in each game take place within the fictional universe. For example, Call of Duty: WWII (released in 2017) comes first chronologically because it’s set in 1940-1945, even though many other games were released before it.
Which Call of Duty game should I play first?
For newcomers to the franchise, we recommend starting with either Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare (2007) or the Modern Warfare reboot (2019). These games offer excellent introductions to the franchise’s gameplay mechanics and feature compelling stories with memorable characters. If you prefer historical settings, begin with Call of Duty: WWII (2017) or the original Call of Duty (2003). For those interested in the Black Ops storyline, start with Call of Duty: Black Ops (2010), which is accessible to new players while setting up the larger narrative.
How many Call of Duty games are there in total?
There are over 20 mainline Call of Duty games with single-player campaigns released since 2003. When including all spin-offs, mobile games, handheld versions, and expansions, the total number exceeds 40 titles. The mainline releases include entries from the WWII era, Black Ops series, Modern Warfare games, and various standalone or futuristic titles. Additionally, the franchise has expanded to include the popular Warzone battle royale games and numerous mobile versions that have contributed to its massive success.
What are the different timelines in the Call of Duty franchise?
The Call of Duty franchise consists of several distinct timelines. The WWII era timeline includes games set during World War II between 1940-1945. The Black Ops timeline spans from the 1960s to the 2070s, following the Mason family and Cold War espionage. The Modern Warfare timeline focuses on contemporary military conflicts from the 1990s to the 2020s. Finally, there are futuristic and standalone titles set in alternate universes or distant futures, such as Ghosts (2015-2027), Advanced Warfare (2054-2061), and Infinite Warfare (2187).
Is there a complete Call of Duty timeline that includes all games?
Yes, this article provides a complete Call of Duty timeline that includes all mainline games in chronological order. The timeline is organized by era, starting with WWII games (1940-1945), progressing through the Black Ops series (1961-2070), covering the Modern Warfare entries (1996-2023), and concluding with futuristic and standalone titles. This comprehensive timeline helps players understand how the different games connect and where each entry fits within the larger franchise narrative.
Final Wordings
The Call of Duty franchise has evolved dramatically since its first release in 2003, growing from a simple WWII shooter to a multi-timeline universe spanning centuries of warfare. Whether you’re a longtime fan looking to revisit the series or a newcomer wondering where to start, understanding the chronological order of Call of Duty games helps you appreciate the rich history and storytelling of this iconic franchise. From the trenches of World War II to the far reaches of space, Call of Duty continues to push the boundaries of what first-person shooters can be.
For more information about the latest Call of Duty releases, check out our coverage of Black Ops 7’s launch details or learn about Warzone codes for free in-game items. If you’re interested in the Zombies mode, don’t miss our article on Black Ops 7 Zombies Cursed Mode. For broader gaming content, explore our game reviews section or check out our article on popular entertainment forms in India that includes Call of Duty. For more on first-person shooter games, read our guide on Hypershot Roblox controls.
For official information about the Call of Duty franchise, visit the Call of Duty official website or check out the comprehensive Call of Duty Wiki for detailed game information.
