CoD4 trailer makes a splash

THE THE CALL OF DUTY series has been a critical and financial success for Activision and Infinity Ward. The first trailer for Call of Duty 4, however, shows something of a departure - the game takes place in the modern day.

Previous CoD games have all been set in World War 2, with plenty of authentic German and French locations. The series is noted for its squad-based missions which have strong storytelling elements, making them a favourite amongst both gamers who like their shooters intense and those who like them with a little bit of purpose and pathos.

CoD 4 is going to be available for both the PS3 and the Xbox 360, and you can check out the 720p HD trailer here. Whilst the series shot to fame on the PC, this version, like CoD3, will be console only. Which sucks.

The game aims to bring this unique brand of storytelling to a modern combat scenario, with the setting looking like the Middle East. Whilst topical, this is hardly inspired. The in-game graphics are looking pretty fancy, whilst the Evil Terrorist Scum™ look suitably evil.

Expect a nice array of modern weaponry, some rope-slinging from helicopters, hostage rescues and goodness knows what else. We're hoping CoD 4 will be out in time for us to gun some Arabs down over Chrimbo. µ