After months of anticipation and mounting speculation, Activision has announced a delay for the highly awaited Season 3 of Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 and Warzone. Originally expected to launch in late March—particularly on March 20, based on the Battle Pass timer—the season will now begin on April 3.
The postponement arrives as a disappointment for fans, many of whom grew excited following leaks suggesting the return of the original Warzone map, Verdansk, for the first time in four years. Leakers also discovered references to iconic weapons from the original map, such as the Grau 5.6 and HDR, adding fuel to the hype. While some feared a potential remake of Verdansk, prominent leaker TheGhostOfHope reassured players the map would stay close to its original form.
However, Activision broke the news of the delay, stating:
“Season 03 is a big moment for Call of Duty: Warzone and Black Ops 6, and we’re taking the time to deliver a great experience starting on April 3.”
The publisher also confirmed that more information on Season 3 would be released next week, coinciding with Warzone’s fifth anniversary on March 10.
Mixed Fan Reaction
Although fans largely understand the need for extra development time, frustration remains. Popular Call of Duty commentator ModernWarzone expressed conflicting feelings, noting:
“Would rather it be delayed than completely broken at launch, but still…”
Another commenter shared a similar sentiment, saying:
“On one hand, it’s encouraging that extra time is being taken to make it better. On the other hand, this month has been the target date for over a year, and it’s not ready. I lean worried.”
Concerns Over Player Retention
The pressure on Activision to deliver is even higher in light of recent player retention struggles for Black Ops 6 and Warzone. On Steam, Call of Duty recorded an average player count of 54,575 in February—the lowest since the platform began tracking data in October 2022. While this number reflects only a fraction of the overall player base, it’s still unusual for a major CoD title to dip so early in its life cycle.
What’s Next?
Activision has not yet explained why Season 3 is being touted as a “big moment” for both Black Ops 6 and Warzone, but speculation suggests an OG-themed return, including the much-anticipated comeback of Verdansk. Additional details, including an official look at new content, are expected to surface following Warzone’s fifth anniversary on March 10.
For now, fans will have to wait until April 3 to see if Season 3 can live up to the hype—and whether Activision’s extra time will pay off in the form of a smooth and memorable launch. Stay tuned for further updates, and check out our ongoing coverage for the latest rumors and leaks surrounding Season 3 of Black Ops 6 and Warzone.
