Call of Duty will add Black Ops Royale, a new free game mode coming March 13

Engadget

by Anna Washenko

March 2, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Call of Duty fans have a new reason to excitement as the popular first-person shooter franchise is set to introduce *Black Ops Royale*, a fresh free-to-play battle royale mode. Scheduled for release on March 13th, this new addition pays homage to the series' initial foray into battle royale with *CoD: Black Ops 4*'s *Blackout*. Unlike previous modes, *Black Ops Royale* offers a unique twist by focusing on scavenging and upgrading weapons from *Call of Duty: Black Ops 7*, rather than relying on Warzone staples like loadouts or buy stations. The mode accommodates 100 players per match, divided into four-person teams, exploring the expansive Avalon map. This reintroduction of a battle royale mode signifies Call of Duty's evolution in adapting to modern gaming trends while honoring its roots. *Black Ops Royale* brings back familiar elements from *Blackout*, such as weapon handling and bullet drop mechanics, reimagined for today’s players. The inclusion of an open-ended perks system further allows customization, echoing the original BR perk mechanic. The mode's emphasis on scavenging and upgrading weapons introduces a fresh dynamic to gameplay, encouraging strategic thinking and adaptability. Set

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Originally published on Engadget on 3/2/2026