Activision and Treyarch, the developers behind Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, have confirmed that the design for T.E.D.D., a character featured in the game`s Vault Edition, is being updated in response to recent player feedback.
Treyarch unveiled T.E.D.D.`s significantly revised appearance via social media, describing it as “face-melting” due to the character`s new aesthetic, which depicts its face as if it were melted off. This contrasts sharply with the original design, which featured T.E.D.D. with a human-like face concealing its robotic structure.
T.E.D.D., originally known as the bus driver from the popular TranZit map in Black Ops 2, returns for Black Ops 7`s new Zombies mode, which draws inspiration from TranZit. The initial reception to T.E.D.D.`s updated look was unfavorable, prompting Activision to make these alterations. Activision also hinted at potential visual updates for other Vault Edition operators.
The remaining Vault Edition operators for Black Ops 7 include Karma, Harper, and Reaper EWR-3.
Priced at $100, the Black Ops 7 Vault Edition offers various bonuses, such as early access to the multiplayer beta, the Reznov operator skin, and the Guild Override weapon camouflage.
Furthermore, Activision recently acknowledged player concerns regarding the increasingly outlandish cosmetic skins in Call of Duty, recognizing a perceived departure from the franchise`s core identity. While no specific actions were announced, it was confirmed that the “Carry Forward” program will not extend to Black Ops 7, meaning previously acquired cosmetic items like Cheech & Chong skins will not be available in the new title.
These statements from Activision coincide with positive sentiment surrounding its competitor, Battlefield 6, particularly its commitment to `grounded` cosmetic designs. However, it is speculated that Battlefield 6 might still incorporate crossover skins, given the commercial incentives for its publisher, EA.