Xbox Introduces New Dynamic Background Feature for Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3

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Xbox Series X and S owners can now download a dynamic background for Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3, adding subtle motion to the game's cover art.

The inclusion of this backdrop arises from the dissatisfaction of Modern Warfare 3 players regarding the perplexing introduction of Call of Duty HQ and a compulsory full-screen advertisement for the game on Xbox consoles.

Xbox has been introducing fresh dynamic backdrops, encompassing those for third-party games such as the Dead Space remake and first-party titles like Forza Motorsport, signifying a heightened emphasis on integrating backgrounds for significant releases.

Xbox Series X and S owners can now enjoy a new dynamic background for Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 ahead of its highly anticipated release on November 10. However, the game's early access campaign launch on November 2 has faced criticism due to the confusing Call of Duty HQ rollout and mandatory full-screen ad on all Xbox consoles. As a result, the sentiment surrounding Modern Warfare 3's launch has been less favorable so far.

In the initial years following the launch of Xbox Series X and S in 2020, there were limited additions of new dynamic motion-based backgrounds for owners to choose from. In 2021, only three new backgrounds were introduced, with two of them being for Halo Infinite. Notably, popular games like Forza Horizon 5 and Psychonauts 2 did not receive any new backgrounds despite their release in the same year. However, Xbox has made significant progress in 2023 by incorporating backgrounds for major third-party games such as the Dead Space remake, Star Wars Jedi: Survivor, and Diablo 4. Additionally, there is an array of new backgrounds available for Xbox's first-party titles like Hi-Fi Rush, Starfield, Forza Motorsport, and more.

Xbox has recently introduced its 13th motion-based background of the year. Klobrille shared on Twitter the latest dynamic background available on Xbox Series X and S, featuring the upcoming game Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3. The background depicts the game's cover art, with Captain Price holding a rifle, and incorporates subtle motion with floating debris near the bottom of the screen.

Some may argue that recent Xbox backgrounds lack sufficient animated elements. For example, the Forza Motorsport and Starfield backgrounds have minimal movement, and Modern Warfare 3's attempt falls into the same category. Many of these backgrounds primarily showcase the game's cover art, with a few small animated elements added. Notably, Modern Warfare 3's dynamic Xbox background closely resembles the one for Diablo 4, featuring Lilith against a red and black backdrop. It is worth noting that the release of Modern Warfare 3's background was likely not influenced by Microsoft's recently closed $69 billion acquisition of Activision Blizzard, as Diablo 4's background was released alongside the game in June.

Should Xbox Owners Expect Even More Dynamic Backgrounds In The Future?

In 2023, Xbox has successfully released a substantial number of new motion-based backgrounds for the major game releases of that year. As a result, it is reasonable to anticipate that Xbox will continue this trend in 2024. Exciting titles such as Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League, Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, as well as confirmed first-party releases like Senua's Saga: Hellblade 2 and Avowed, have significant potential to receive dynamic backgrounds on Xbox next year.

Call Of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 (2023) is a first-person shooter game developed by Sledgehammer Games and published by Activision. It is available on PC, PS5, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, PS4, and Xbox One. The game was released on November 10, 2023.

Editor's P/S

As an Xbox fan, I am thrilled about the new dynamic background feature for Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3. This free addition enhances the immersive experience of the game and showcases the stunning cover art. The subtle motion adds a touch of life to the background, making it more engaging and captivating. I appreciate Xbox's commitment to providing dynamic backgrounds for significant releases, as it demonstrates their attention to detail and dedication to enhancing the overall gaming experience.

However, I share the disappointment expressed by many Modern Warfare 3 players regarding the confusing introduction of Call of Duty HQ and the mandatory full-screen advertisement on Xbox consoles. These elements have overshadowed the excitement surrounding the game's launch and detracted from the overall experience. I hope that Xbox will address this issue in future updates to ensure a seamless and enjoyable gaming experience for all players.