The Call of Duty franchise is a juggernaut in the gaming world, renowned for its explosive action, iconic characters, and pulse-pounding campaigns that take you to the heart of global conflicts. However, within this vast library of titles lie narratives with tantalizing potential that were left frustratingly incomplete. These "unfinished storylines" linger in the minds of players, leaving us wanting more. Let's delve into some of the most prominent examples and explore the potential these stories held.

1. The Makarov Arc (Modern Warfare 2 & 3):

Vladimir Makarov, the ultranationalist villain of Modern Warfare 2, became a franchise mainstay due to his ruthlessness and the brutal "No Russian" mission. However, his demise in Modern Warfare 3 felt rushed and unsatisfying. We never fully explored his motivations beyond generic villainy. Imagine a deeper dive into his past, the events that shaped him, and the forces manipulating him. This could have led to a more complex antagonist and a more impactful conclusion to his arc.

2. The Aftermath of World at War:

Call of Duty: World at War delivered a gritty and unflinching portrayal of the Pacific and Eastern Fronts of World War II. The campaign's ending left room for further exploration. Witnessing the aftermath of the war, the rebuilding efforts, and the lingering scars on the soldiers and civilians would have been a powerful continuation. Showcasing the human cost beyond the battlefield victories would have added a poignant layer to the narrative.

3. The Baumann Plotline (Black Ops):

Grigori Weaver, the enigmatic CIA operative in Black Ops, mentions a larger conspiracy involving a figure named Baumann. This plot thread is never fully addressed, leaving players curious. Who was Baumann? What was his role in the events of the Black Ops campaign? Was he connected to the larger Cold War machinations? Exploring this storyline could have expanded the Black Ops universe and offered a deeper understanding of the global power struggles at play.

4. The Ghosts' Legacy (Call of Duty: Ghosts):

Ghosts, a standalone title, introduced a compelling narrative of a fictional war between the United States and a South American Federation. The ending hinted at the Ghosts continuing their fight. Imagine a follow-up campaign exploring their post-war activities, recruiting new members, and facing new threats. This could have established the Ghosts as a recurring force in the Call of Duty universe, adding a new dimension to the franchise.

5. The Consequences of Black Ops II's Choices:

Black Ops II's branching narrative offered a glimpse of a future shaped by player decisions. However, the campaign only scratched the surface. Imagine a full-fledged sequel exploring the long-term ramifications of those choices. Did the focus on military technology lead to an oppressive future? Did diplomacy usher in a new era of peace? This type of continuation would have showcased the lasting impact of the player's actions, adding a layer of weight and consequence to the gameplay.

6. The Fate of Kevin Spacey's Character in Advanced Warfare:

Advanced Warfare featured Kevin Spacey as Jonathan Irons, the leader of a powerful private military corporation. While Irons met his demise by the campaign's end, the future of Atlas Corporation, the company he built, remained uncertain. Imagine a follow-up exploring the power vacuum left by Irons' death. Did Atlas Corporation crumble? Did it become even more ruthless under new leadership? This could have explored the complex relationship between corporations, military power, and global politics.

7. The Resistance Uprising (Call of Duty: WWII: The Resistance):

This downloadable content for Call of Duty: WWII offered a glimpse into the French Resistance movement during World War II. Despite its limited scope, the campaign showcased the bravery and sacrifice of these civilians fighting for freedom. Imagine a full-fledged title dedicated to the Resistance. Following different characters across Europe, showcasing the various tactics and challenges they faced, could have delivered a powerful and emotional narrative about the human spirit in the face of oppression.

8. The Interconnected Black Ops Universe:

The Black Ops series boasts a rich and complex timeline spanning decades. However, these stories often feel like isolated incidents. Imagine a larger narrative framework that connects these campaigns more directly. Showcasing the ripple effects of past events and revealing recurring characters or organizations would create a more cohesive and compelling universe for players to explore.

9. The Moral Ambiguity of Spec Ops (Modern Warfare 2):

Modern Warfare 2's Spec Ops missions offered intense cooperative gameplay with a unique moral twist. Some missions saw players aiding warlords or committing war crimes. This moral ambiguity offered fertile ground for narrative exploration. Imagine a campaign exploring the psychological toll of these operations on the Special Forces soldiers involved.