Call of Duty Black Ops Cold War was in dire need of a balance update as the recent meta had been overwhelming the multiplayer experience. Before the release of Season One, the developers have nerfed two climactic guns that have been domineering the Call of Duty Black Ops Cold War meta for weeks.
While various things were addressed in the Call of Duty Black Ops Cold War December 15 update, two guns had gone through a significant nerf. The AUG and M16 tactical rifles had been dominating the multiplayer mode, but now their stats have been adjusted to level the playing field. While the guns have not become useless, they are surely not the apex predators that they once were.
The recent Call of Duty Black Ops Cold War update has lessened the maximum efficiency range and fire rate of the M16. This reduces its capability to longshot enemies easily and extends the time between kills.
As most loadouts for the M16 revolved around improving these two factors, the update has brought the weapon back into balance with other guns of the same category. Along with the M16, the AUG has also gotten a nerf that affects its headshot multiplier, fire rate, and maximum efficiency range. As a minor nerf to both weapons, the 19.8” Task Force barrel attachment has also been nerfed by lowering the damage increase that it used to give to tactical rifles.
The developer’s goal is to try and revamp the existing meta for the holiday season. By balancing these weapons, new players can enjoy the game in a more fair situation compared to before. Treyarch did adjust more than just the two aforementioned weapons in the Call of Duty Black Ops Cold War update as assault rifles, shotguns, and various other weapons received buffs and nerfs.
Two shotguns in Call of Duty Black Ops Cold War received a nerf as the Gallo SA12 and Hauer 77 both received damage reductions. The AK47 received a small nerf along with the Krig 6, but the FFAR 1 got a much-need buff helping to balance the assault rifle class.
The Bullfrog, KSP, and Milano SMGs now have higher efficiency in their damage range, and the M60 LMG received increased weapon swapping speed and ADS. As a critical slap to the meta, the Call of Duty Black Ops Cold War Flak Jacket perk also received a nerf during this update. Several perks were also enhanced, but at least now Flak Jacket fans can be killed by explosives once again.
