Activision is introducing a handful of new features in the second iteration of Warzone, and the divisive proximity chat is one of them.
Warzone 2 is set to be an upgraded battle royale experience that's shaking up the formula we're all familiar with in favour of some new ones. The biggest changes are the circle collapse, interrogation, and proximity chat, which is essentially open comms. Meaning anyone in your general vicinity can hear you, and vice versa.
Not everyone is on board with this change. Gameplay and tactics aside, Call of Duty isn't known for having the most wholesome community. Having to deal with toxic players' unfiltered ramblings as they close in on you doesn't seem like a particularly innovative feature.
Of course, you can always report players, but having to be subjected to them by default seems a little ill thought out. But who knows, maybe everyone will behave themselves and it'll be fantastic! And maybe I'll buy a winning lottery ticket. Anything can happen. While we wait for that to unfold, let's dive into everything you need to know about Warzone 2.0 proximity chat.
What is Proximity Chat in Warzone 2.0?
Call of Duty: Warzone 2.0 proximity chat is one of the new gameplay features coming to the battle royale title and its DMZ mode when it launches later today. On that note, you really should pre-load Warzone 2.0 if you haven't already. The file size hasn't been officially confirmed by Activision, and the figures appear to be inconsistent, but rest assured, it's as huge as ever. We've listed the current Warzone 2.0 file size for PS5, PS4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and PC based on our systems, but we've reached out to Activision for more solid details.
Proximity chat allows in-game chatter to be picked up by anyone within a certain range. You'll need to stick to your unit to stay in contact. But if you and your squad are plotting your next course of action, be advised; there may be other players hidden nearby listening in. Of course, that goes both ways. You can also eavesdrop on anyone close by to gather your own intel.
Glaringly obvious problems of proximity chat aside, Activision is keen to highlight the strategic value of the new feature. You could feed enemies false information, or creep around the map, ears open, to get the upper hand. It also offers an extra layer of immersion, with players getting gradually louder as you approach them, and the sound fading as you break away. Although I don't know that hearing 'your mum' insults is indicative of true combat experience.
It'll be most useful in Warzone 2.0's Gulag, where you're paired with a random squadmate in a Duo. You'll have to be quick to nail down a strategy before the opposing Duo closes in, because they'll be able to hear everything.
Proximity chat will be a pretty crucial factor in DMZ, to make sure Assimilation goes to plan. Alternatively, you can try to de-escalate any altercations if you'd rather just complete your objectives and get out rather than engaging.
It does make for some hilarious moments when utilised in certain games though. The DayZ Psychopath saga being one of my favourites. So I won't count it out just yet.
Can you turn off proximity chat in Warzone 2.0?
If this all sounds terrible, don't worry – you should be able to turn off proximity chat in Warzone 2.0 settings. A couple of outlets are reporting that this has been confirmed, but official word from Activision appears to be absent. So we'll confirm to be doubly sure, but this should be a given.
And don't forget, there's always the option of creating private parties with friends and squad mates if you'd prefer to stay out of the verbal fray.
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