Infinity Ward is shaking up the Call of Duty: Warzone formula with the introduction of Realism Mode. Better known as Realism Battle Royale, this new gameplay mode serves as a temporary replacement for Battle Royale Quads. It’s still a four-player affair, but this mode makes a few key changes that drastically alter the Warzone gameplay formula.
What is Realism Mode in Call of Duty: Warzone?
Realism Mode in Call of Duty: Warzone is a limited-time gameplay mode meant to offer a more realistic warfare experience. It increases the amount of damage dealt by weapons, reduces HUD elements, and completely removes the map and compass.
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In a nutshell, Realism Mode is very similar to so-called Hardcore modes in other first-person games. However, since the Call of Duty formula relies heavily on battlefield-related information, this new mode represents a fairly drastic departure from the norm.
This weekend's playlist update for #Warzone is now live across all platforms! Jump into Realism Battle Royale (Quads). This temporarily replaces Battle Royale Quads.
— Infinity Ward (@InfinityWard) June 19, 2020
The most obvious change is the reduction of HUD or heads-up-display elements. In Realism Mode, there are basically zero on-screen indicators for anything. There’s no minimap, there are no map markers, nor any on-screen displays for ammo count, weapons, or hits. You won’t have any visual indication of where fire is coming from, nor will you see pings for enemy locations, weapons, or ammunition.
To make matters even more intense, the amount of damage dealt by weapons has been increased. Enemies and allies alike will take fewer shots to kill, and headshots will be much more devastating. The only saving grace on this front is that friendly fire is disabled. Given that there are no HUD indicators for enemies or friendlies, it’s possible that keeping friendly fire off was the only way for Warzone Realism Mode to remain playable.
Since Realism Mode in Call of Duty: Warzone removes loads of convenient tips and indicators, you’ll want to play things as safe as possible. Be sure to pack a loadout with low-recoil weapons, especially ones you’re already familiar with. And don’t bother with any equipment or perks that rely on maps or radar, as they’ll be practically useless.
