Jumping into Black Ops 7 for the first time can feel like stepping into a whole new world, and trust me, it’s easy to get lost in all the shiny new features. The Gunsmith system alone can keep you tinkering for hours, but if you’re just starting out, keep it simple. You’ll thank yourself later. A solid first choice is the Kestrel 556 assault rifle – it’s reliable, hits hard enough, and doesn’t kick like a mule. Throw on a basic red dot and maybe a foregrip to keep your shots steady. This is the kind of setup that lets you focus on learning the maps instead of wrestling with your gun. If you’re the type who likes to sprint into the action, the Viper-9 SMG is your best friend. It’s brutal at close range, though you’ll want to stick to tight spaces on maps like Pinnacle Station or Favela. Oh, and if you’re still finding your feet, check out the CoD BO7 Bot Lobby to get some practice without the pressure of real players.
Once you’ve got a gun you’re comfortable with, the next step is learning the maps. BO7 throws you into all sorts of environments – wide-open desert in Sandstorm, cramped hallways in Ark, and everything in between. The trick is to slow down. Don’t just sprint blindly; you’ll run straight into trouble. Listen for footsteps, pay attention to where people usually peek from, and figure out the common flanking routes. A player who knows the angles will beat someone with a fancy sniper but no idea where the enemy’s coming from. It’s all about positioning and timing, not just raw aim.
When it comes to perks, keep them focused on your playstyle. If you’re running the Kestrel and holding lanes, you’ll want perks that help with accuracy and survivability. If you’re rocking the Viper-9, speed and agility perks are worth their weight in gold. And don’t forget about equipment – a well-placed stun or smoke grenade can flip a fight in your favour. Sometimes, it’s not about winning the duel outright but creating the opening to push an objective or escape a bad spot.
And then there’s Zombies. The new Aetherium Outbreak mode is no joke. You can’t just stand still and pick them off – that’s a quick way to get swarmed. Keep moving, loop the zombies around the map, and bunch them up before unloading your shots. Always save for Jugger-Nog as soon as possible, and use your special ability when things get messy. Stick close to your squad, share points if someone’s short, and call out elite spawns so no one gets blindsided. It’s not about being the hero – it’s about surviving together. If you want to ease into it or test strategies without risking a run, you might want to buy BO7 Bot Lobbies for some low-stress practice.
