UPDATE: The highly anticipated Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 beta is set to launch on October 2, 2023 for early access players, and October 5, 2023 for the general public. However, players eager to dive into the action must ensure they have Secure Boot enabled on their PCs to participate.
In an urgent announcement, Activision confirmed that the beta will require both TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot for PC gamers. This measure is part of a significant push to implement the “most advanced and robust anti-cheat protections” in gaming, starting with Black Ops 7. If players are not prepared, they may find themselves locked out of one of the biggest gaming events of the year.
The requirement for Secure Boot is not just a minor inconvenience. This UEFI firmware is designed to block unauthorized software during the startup process of your PC, ensuring that only verified applications run. While this enhances security and helps combat cheating, it can also create barriers for players who are not equipped with the necessary hardware.
“We’re striking cheat makers and sellers from every angle: in-game detections that stop them cold, and legal action that dismantles their operations,”
the official blog post reads. Activision emphasizes its commitment to improving systems that detect external hardware and preventing cheating, marking a new phase for Ricochet Anti-Cheat with Black Ops 7.
Gamers are expressing mixed feelings about this requirement. While some understand the necessity of Secure Boot for game integrity, many are frustrated by the additional steps needed to comply. This was echoed by Christian Buhl, the technical director for Battlefield 6, who stated, “I wish we didn’t have to turn on Secure Boot,” reflecting a common sentiment in the gaming community.
The implications are significant: players with older PCs that lack UEFI or Secure Boot compatibility may find themselves unable to play, effectively sidelining them from the action. As gaming technology evolves, this trend towards stringent security measures is likely to become more prevalent, raising concerns among gamers who prefer less intrusive methods of anti-cheat protection.
As the launch date approaches, players are encouraged to verify their system settings to avoid any last-minute issues. Activision’s commitment to a safer gaming environment comes with its challenges, and the community is urged to adapt quickly to these changes.
Stay tuned for further updates as we near the beta launch. Prepare now to ensure you’re ready to join the fight in Call of Duty: Black Ops 7. This is a pivotal moment for both developers and players alike, and the gaming landscape is set to change.