Does Modern Warfare 2 take place before or after?

ByJames Dorn Last Update on

Modern Warfare 2 unambiguously takes place after the events of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare (2019). It serves as a direct sequel to the 2019 reboot, moving the story forward around 3 years with returning characters like Captain Price and Task Force 141.

As an avid Call of Duty player and content creator, I‘ve done deep dives into the lore and timeline of the expansive franchise. With the release of MW2 in 2022, there was some confusion amongst fans regarding how it fits into the series. In this article, I‘ll clearly breakdown when MW2 takes place and how it continues the narrative of the Modern Warfare reboot started in 2019.

A Direct Sequel and Continuation

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 takes place in late 2022, approximately 3 years after the events of 2019‘s Modern Warfare. It features the return of fan-favorite characters like Captain Price, Kyle Garrick, and Simon "Ghost" Riley to continue the fight against terrorist threats as part of Task Force 141.

Based on trailers and intel from the developers at Infinity Ward, MW2 progresses the story of MW2019 forward as opposed to rebooting or re-imagining previous entries in the sub-series.

For context, the original Modern Warfare 2 released in 2009 took place in 2016 with characters like Soap, Price, and Ghost. The new MW games are a complete reboot of that timeline with re-envisioned plot lines, technology, and events. For example, the iconic "No Russian" mission now likely never occurred in this new narrative.

An Evolving Timeline and Connections

Longtime fans of Call of Duty know the series has a complex and evolving fiction across multiple sub-series like Black Ops and the World War II games. With each new release or reboot, details can get muddy regarding what events and backstories remain canon.

The Modern Warfare games specifically have seen various reboots, sequels, and prequels across titles released in 2007, 2009, 2011 and 2019.

Here is a breakdown of the different MW timelines:

  • Original trilogy with COD4 (2007) through MW3 (2011)
  • Soft reboot in 2019 with a new, contemporary storyline
  • Direct sequel to the reboot with Modern Warfare II in 2022

So Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 definitively continues the story established by 2019‘s Modern Warfare game. They share a common, contemporary timeline as opposed to past entries.

Task Force 141‘s Continuing Mission

A key detail tying the 2019 reboot to 2022‘s sequel together is Task Force 141. The anti-terrorist squad features beloved returning characters like Captain Price and Simon "Ghost" Riley alongside new operatives. Players experience MW2‘s campaign from the perspective of this elite international group.

By the end of the 2019 game, Price had consolidated allies into 141 to address global threats beyond borders. In Modern Warfare II, set 3 years later, the multinational force contains old and new faces taking the fight to subversive organizations across the world.

This continuation of Task Force 141, its key members, and overarching mission confirms MW2 picks up where their previous operation concludes by moving the story several years into the future.

An Evolving Game for the Times

Analyzing Call of Duty plots over the years, it‘s clear the socio-political events occurring in the real world influence and shape the fiction. Technologies, threats, locales, and action reflect contemporary headlines with realistic visuals and cinematic set-pieces.

The soft reboot of Modern Warfare in 2019 grounded the story in relatable, modern warfare facing global forces today. As I wrote back in my review of the 2019 game, Infinity Ward reconstructed Call of Duty with moral complexity and intensity akin to thriller films.

MW2 pushes boundaries further two years later with new technological capabilities, weapons, and locations. The campaign trailer reveals story inspiration comes from fighting Mexican cartels, covert counter-terror operations, and proxy wars erupting around an unstable Middle East.

Ultimately, Call of Duty aims to craft blockbuster, Hollywood-quality war stories ripped from real events. The Modern Warfare series stands at the forefront of these efforts by transporting players into a visually stunning, intense fiction all too plausible today.

An Uncertain Future in 2024?

As mentioned earlier, Call of Duty 2023 promises continued momentum with a slate of premium and free experiences across platforms. Rumors indicate one project in active development continues the MW2 storyline with Task Force 141.

With sinister threats still lurking and shocking revelations by MW2‘s finale, Infinity Ward has set the stage for future installments. However, I‘d caution drawing any definite conclusions yet regarding precise release plans or dates.

For now, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 provides a visually exhilarating direct sequel to 2019‘s series reboot. It expands on the initial foundation of realistic gameplay, morally complex choices, and a task force confronting modern global threats. I highly recommend fans of intense solo campaigns pick it up and enjoy the ride.

Let me know your thoughts on MW2 and the entire Call of Duty expanded universe in the comments below! This is just one entry in my ongoing series analyzing major video game releases, so subscribe for regular in-depth guides.

James K. Dorn, a passionate gamer deeply immersed in the world of video gaming. My journey in gaming is not just about playing; it's about exploring every facet of the games I love. I am particularly fascinated by the intricate worlds of role-playing games like "The Witcher" series and "Elder Scrolls: Skyrim," where every decision shapes the story.

As a strategy game enthusiast, I spend hours devising tactics in games like "Civilization VI" and "StarCraft II," always eager to share my strategies with fellow gamers. I'm also an ardent follower of the ever-evolving landscape of indie games, finding gems like "Hollow Knight" and "Celeste" that offer unique, compelling experiences.

My content isn't just reviews; it's about deep dives into game mechanics, storytelling, and the art of game design. I love dissecting the narratives of games like "The Last of Us" and discussing the innovative gameplay of titles like "Death Stranding."

Being at the forefront of gaming news, I eagerly anticipate and share insights on upcoming releases like the next big open-world adventure or the latest in the "Final Fantasy" series. My goal is to build a community where we not only play games but also appreciate the artistry and effort behind them. Join me in this gaming journey, where every session is an adventure, and every game is a story waiting to be told.

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