Game Mode Types

Explore Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War Dead Ops Arcade modes: traditional, First Person, and Advanced Start options with unique pros and cons.

Dead Ops Arcade (traditional overhead)

This is the main and preferred way to play, mirroring a traditional arcade game. The camera is fixated overhead unless you find a first-person mode (FPM) pickup. Most enemies and all hazards kill you in one shot. Playing on the extra high camera setting can help visibility. You cannot jump or sprint in this mode. It is more difficult than first-person mode and is recommended if you enjoy top-down shooters or want to be taken seriously in the community.

Dead Ops Arcade First Person

This mode mirrors traditional Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War gameplay, including sprinting and jumping. You can take multiple hits from most zombie types before dying and run through hazards (poles, floggers) without immediately dying. The FPM applies to all aspects of the game, including bonus rooms and arcade machines. Separate leaderboards exist for rounds and scores. This mode is significantly easier than the regular overhead gameplay and is recommended for a change of pace, a different perspective, or if you find the traditional gameplay too difficult.

Dead Ops Arcade Solo Advanced Start

This mode uses the traditional camera view but starts you at the first round of the last arena you reached. For example, if you reached round 43 in the Bloodpool (rounds 41-44) and died, you will start on round 41. You are given one fate immediately at the start, with a chance to get a second fate after round 65 in the Room of Judgement. You also start with more bombs and boosts than normal. This mode provides an opportunity to practice high rounds (65+) sooner. Rounds and scores do not count on the leaderboards. This is the method to try if you want to beat the Mamaback but lack the skill to play traditionally or do not have others to play with, and it can also be useful for practicing high-round games.

Dead Ops Arcade First Person Solo Advanced Start

This mode combines the First Person (FPM) gameplay with the Advanced Start feature. You start at the first round of the last arena reached and are given one fate immediately, with a second available after round 65. You begin with more bombs and boosts. The controls mirror traditional Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War gameplay with sprinting and jumping, and you can withstand multiple hits and run through hazards. FPM applies to all game facets. However, you cannot earn trophies or calling cards in this mode, and rounds and scores do not count on the leaderboards. This mode is intended for players who want an easier way to achieve goals like the Mamaback trophy or practice higher rounds.