Spacing out

Even the world’s best armies have to make contingency plans, so it’s good to see that Activision was prepared to react to Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare’s leak overnight. Despite the publisher originally planning to fire off the first trailer for the Sledgehammer Games developed sequel on Sunday, the footage has arrived a few days early – but it still looks great.

As anticipated, the title is set in the future, where “technology and tactics have evolved to usher in a new era for the franchise”. In addition to a particularly strong Kevin Spacey monologue, the footage also offers a sizeable glimpse at some of the new tools that you’ll be able to employ, including a portable shield, hover bikes, and some Spider-Man-esque climbing gloves.

More importantly, it demonstrates a real step forward visually for the franchise, which has started to look dated of late. The character models in particular appear to be vastly improved, but there are also hints at some seriously bombastic set-pieces, including a collapsing bridge. The only disappointment is that the footage is taken from the Xbox One, meaning that Microsoft has likely renewed its co-marketing partnership.

Still, with the game being built for next-gen systems first and foremost, you can rest assured that this is going to really take advantage of the added grunt of the PlayStation 4. Don’t worry if you haven’t upgraded just yet, though, as rumours suggest that Transformers: Fall of Cybertron developer High Moon Studios is handling the PlayStation 3 version.

The game’s due out on 4th November, which is a typical slot for the mega franchise. What did you think of the trailer? Is your trigger finger itching to try out some future tech? Aim down the sights in the comments section below.

[source youtube.com]