The co-op mode “SpecOps” doesn’t have many enthusiastic supporters among players of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare. However, with a few tips, you can have a lot of fun in the “mini-raids”.
Which mode are we talking about? This guide focuses on “Special Operations” from Call of Duty: Modern Warfare. The mode features many missions that remind a bit of PvE raids from other games. You receive mission objectives and move across a large map to new hotspots, usually filled with many enemies, where you must complete a specific task.
Many missions have a challenging difficulty level. However, if you approach it with the right mindset and tactics, they can also be a lot of fun, even though many players found the mode buggy and disappointing at the launch of Modern Warfare .
Why should you use this guide? The strategies proposed in this guide have proven effective for me in the quest for the coveted “Mission Complete” badge.
I have thousands of hours spent in shooters with extensive PvE content like The Division 2 and hundreds of Destiny raids. Through my experiences, I learned that challenging content can be a lot of fun when approached correctly.
This guide explains what to expect from the SpecOps operations, how to prepare, and what it takes to complete the missions.
First and foremost, we played “Operation Windstorm”, which also serves as a good example here, as the first task hardly works without the right tactics.
1. Tip: Be prepared for a challenge
Currently, there are 8 different missions, each coming with its own structure and requirements. Before you dive into the adventure with friends or strangers, you should be prepared for the following points:
- Many enemies – Most missions you need to complete during an operation throw a ton of enemies at you, and sometimes the spawns are not limited. More enemies will keep coming.
- Good planning – To survive the enemy onslaught or to complete a mission objective, you should plan beforehand how to approach it best. “Just go in” rarely works here, except to gain experience for the next round.
- Stamina – Especially if you’re not familiar with the operation yet, multiple attempts will be necessary. Don’t assume you can handle it all right away. Instead, accept the challenge and fight through.
The operations can be incredibly tough but often offer unique solutions. “Operation Windstorm” is a good example here. You infiltrate an airport and must hack a device on the roof at the start. You can force your way in through the front entrance and take out dozens of enemies and Juggernauts before proceeding. Or you can go quietly and complete the first mission step in no time.
2. Tip: Prepare well for the missions
Preparation is key in SpecOps. Before you even start the operation itself, you should consider a few points:
- Find yourself a team
- Play with or without a guide
Why do I need a team? Communication is very important in this mode. When you start a player search, add your teammates as friends or at least talk to each other.
It works best with friends. However, if you encounter a few veterans in the player search, success is often achievable. If you are just starting with the co-op mode, try to play with friends if possible and work your way through together.
Why should I play with a guide? Again, the example of Operation Windstorm. It took us several rounds to even realize we could complete the first part without being discovered.
If you know what to expect, many missions become significantly easier. However, it loses a bit of its appeal. It’s similar to large raids in other games that can still be fun, even though you know how to tackle them.
I personally try to play raids or modes like this without a guide and sometimes annoy my teammates a bit. But when “MISSION ACCOMPLISHED” finally appears on the screen, there’s hardly a better feeling.
3. Tip: Proper role distribution helps against Juggernauts and survival
Why is task distribution so important? Your entire loadout in co-op modes consists of 3 components:
- Roles – Each role comes with an active and a passive ability.
- Equipment – Here you can “buy” killstreaks before the match. However, you need points from previous missions for this. These “killstreaks” function differently than in multiplayer and are unlocked with points.
- Gear – Adjust your gear to the role. A medic gets Stim to survive, a “Demolition Expert” takes the perk “Shrapnel” and 2 thermite grenades, and so on. Strong weapons help as well.
All 3 points influence your play style and specialize your soldier. Define the tasks in this order as well and adjust everything so that it complements each other. Experiment a bit, take 2 medics with you, but always keep in mind that a Juggernaut could come around the corner at any moment.
4. Tip: Be flexible and adapt; then SpecOps won’t be too hard
When it comes to the mission itself, you need stamina and flexibility. Keep trying and adapt to the situations. Here’s a 3-point plan:
- Play a few rounds – Get familiar with the mission objectives and see which paths could lead to victory.
- Make a plan – Once you’ve grasped the layout of the objectives, take a more tactical approach. Split into teams or try a stealth tactic.
- Continue to adjust your equipment – If you find you have too little ammo or need more armor, bring different setups or redistribute roles.
Here, only trial and error will help. Many of the operations have a high difficulty level and offer a real challenge. However, if you understand the structure of the missions and know which tactics are appropriate when, you too will soon complete your first round of “Special Operations”.
SpecOps continues the story and rewards operators
What is SpecOps? The abbreviation SpecOps, for Special Operations, refers to the co-op modes of the large shooter Call of Duty: Modern Warfare. In German, this category is called “Special Unit”, which includes 3 game modes that you can start together with friends or through player search.
- Special Unit
- Survival
- Classic Special Unit
“Survival” is only available to players on PlayStation 4. Check out what the exclusive PS4 content has to offer.
Can I play SpecOps solo? The major operations cannot be played solo. These missions are not designed for that and are hardly manageable alone.
However, the two modes “Classic Special Unit” and “Survival” do work in solo mode. You can start a “Private Game” through the SpecOps main menu and choose between the classic special operation missions and Survival.
Why should I try the SpecOps operations? The mini-raids are fun, continue the story of the campaign, and allow you to unlock operators for multiplayer. I highly recommend trying this with 3 friends, especially when 24/7 Shipment is being particularly unkind to you .
The operations are quite hard in parts, and you need good teamwork. Don’t get discouraged and try again; perhaps you’ll find the trick that leads you to victory.
If you want to see how I, as “Schnitzel”, completed Operation Windstorm with 3 friends, you can check it out from the YouTuber “Hausa MyStar”. Even though we were all SpecOp noobs back then, it took us only about 1.5 hours to understand the mission, develop a plan, and leave the battlefield victorious.
Will you try the SpecOps mode or are you already pros? The co-op experience also provides good preparation for the upcoming “Warzone”, the battle royale of Call of Duty:
