Before most players even had access, the original soft launch of Call of Duty: Warzone Mobile was officially over. Activision has confirmed that it will sunset the test version that’s been running in select regions since 2022. The move comes ahead of the planned global launch of a newer, fully integrated version of Warzone Mobile.

This isn’t just a content update or patch. It’s a full shift in direction. The original test client is being shut down entirely, with servers going offline and progress wiped. The replacement is built from the ground up to connect more closely with the mainline Call of Duty ecosystem, including cross-progression with Modern Warfare II and Warzone 2.0.

Soft Launch Version Will Be Shut Down

The early-access build, launched in regions like Australia and Sweden, was originally meant to fine-tune mobile-specific gameplay for battle royale on the go. But as priorities changed internally, Activision shifted focus to a version that more directly links with console and PC Call of Duty titles. That early version will be fully taken offline soon, and it won’t receive further updates.

Players who tested that version won’t carry over their progress, as the backend systems and game architecture are entirely different. This has frustrated some in the early community, especially those who put in hours unlocking weapons and cosmetics.

A Rebuilt Game Tied to the Core COD Experience

The upcoming global version isn’t just an update — it’s a different product. The new Warzone Mobile is designed to work in sync with Warzone and Modern Warfare II, including shared progression for weapons, operators, and battle pass content. That connection wasn’t part of the original soft launch build.

This tighter integration reflects Activision’s larger push toward a unified Call of Duty platform. Warzone Mobile will offer familiar maps like Verdansk, but with systems and loadouts that match the current state of the franchise. It’s also being optimized for a broader range of devices, with improvements to performance, matchmaking, and monetization.

No Progress Transfer for Soft Launch Players

One of the more controversial decisions is that none of the progress or purchases from the soft launch will carry over to the global version. That includes cosmetics, battle pass unlocks, and match history. According to the developers, the infrastructure between the two builds is incompatible.

While not unusual in mobile soft launches, it’s still a sore point for players who invested real time or money. There’s no mention of compensation, but players will be able to start fresh in the new version when it rolls out.

Why This Matters for Mobile FPS Games

The closure of the soft launch version highlights how tricky large-scale mobile FPS games are to pull off. Unlike games designed exclusively for mobile from the start, Warzone Mobile is trying to maintain parity with its console counterparts. That means constant updates, content syncing, and high technical demands — especially across a fragmented range of mobile hardware.

Other shooters like Apex Legends Mobile have faced similar challenges, with some shutting down despite strong launches. The lesson here is that brand recognition only goes so far. Building and sustaining a high-end multiplayer FPS on mobile requires more than just porting over content — it needs infrastructure, balance, and community support that can scale.

Whether the new Warzone Mobile finds that balance remains to be seen, but for now, the original test run is done.

Related posts

Logo
Scroll to Top