# **Call of Duty**
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Who / What
**Call of Duty** is a globally renowned first-person shooter video game franchise centered around military themes. It spans multiple genres, including tactical combat, survival horror, and narrative-driven experiences, with a focus on realistic warfare simulations.
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Background & History
Developed by **Infinity Ward**, *Call of Duty* premiered in 2003 as *Call of Duty: Finest Hour*, marking the franchise’s debut. The series evolved under subsequent studios—Treyarch (2014–2017) and Sledgehammer Games (2018–present)—while expanding into spin-offs, mobile games, and cross-platform releases. Key milestones include *Call of Duty: Modern Warfare* (2007), a critical and commercial success, and its annual reboot series (*Modern Warfare*, *Black Ops*), which became cultural phenomena.
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Why Notable
The franchise dominates the gaming industry with over **1 billion copies sold**, making it one of the best-selling video game series ever. Its influence extends beyond games into film, television, and merchandise, shaping modern military storytelling and esports culture. The *Call of Duty* brand also drives Activision’s revenue, particularly through its annual holiday releases.
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In the News
As of 2024, *Call of Duty* remains a dominant force in gaming, with recent expansions into **VR (via Meta Quest)** and enhanced cross-platform play across PC, console, and mobile. The franchise continues to adapt to trends like AI-driven gameplay and cinematic storytelling, while maintaining its status as a staple in competitive esports, particularly in *Modern Warfare II* and *Black Ops Warzone*.
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Key Facts
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