Not only can you now modify game modes in Black Ops 2, but you can also now modify weapons. Every single weapon in the game can be modified with different camos, some of which can be unlocked by completing Challenges. Challenges is a system in Black Ops 2 which David Vonderhaar, Treyarch game designer, says will be extremely significant.
The idea behind the Challenges system is to try to help people to explore different aspects of the game by providing incentive for doing so. There will be more than a thousand challenges available. Each time a player completes a challenge, the achievement will unlock a new weapon camo, a player card customization option, or something else cool.
Also on the topic of unlocks, many gamers will be relieved to hear that Prestige levels are changing. Instead of hitting Prestige and finding everything reset, you’ll be given a couple options. You’ll be able to choose to unlock an extra Custom Class slot (you’re given a maximum of five of those), or you’ll have the option to reset all stats so you can rebuild your class from scratch. You’ll also be given a Prestige Unlock Token which ignores all level gates. You’ll be able to select any item you want with a Prestige Unlock Token; the unlock is permanent.
Vonderhaar jokes that the old system wasn’t particularly encouraging to players. “Thank you for leveling up! Do it again,” as he explained. This repetitious experience could become something of a grind—a chore as opposed to a real part of the fun. The new system should actually offer some more tangible rewards, but still offer the option of wiping the slate clean if that’s what a player prefers to do. When you hit the tenth level of Prestige, you receive a special emblem and all the content is unlocked. At that point you’ll pretty much be a total badass. Black Ops 2 will be coming out on November 13th. Don’t forget to pre-order!