The official Call of Duty League released the latest ruleset for professional play during the 2021 season. The rules are called the Competitive Settings V 1.0.1 but don’t get too attached. The league said there’s always the possibility that things could change before the first event.
The season’s biggest change has already been documented. All players will now have to use a PC and a league-approved controller instead of a PlayStation console.
How did the community react to the rest of the changes? Let's start with the settings.
Call of Duty League 2021 Ruleset Highlights
As per franchise tradition, competitive play will stick to three modes with unique map picks for each:
Hardpoint
Maps:
- Cartel
- Checkmate
- Crossroads
- Garrison
- Moscow
Settings:
- 5 minutes
- 250 point score limit
- Respawn delay is 2 seconds
- There’s a suicide penalty of 3 seconds
- Health is 150
- Friendly fire is enabled
Search & Destroy
Maps:
- Checkmate
- Crossroads
- Garrison
- Miami
- Moscow
Settings
- The time limit is 1 minute 30 seconds per round
- First to 6 rounds
- Teams switch rounds every round
- Health is 150
Control
Maps:
- Checkmate
- Garrison
- Moscow
Settings:
- The time limit is 1 minute 30 seconds, best of five.
Banned weapons and items
- All LMGs, all shotguns, all launchers, and all special weapons
- Attachments SWAT 5MW Laser Sight and Ember Sighting Point
- Dual Wield, Stimshot, and Decoy
- The Paranoia, Forward Intel, and Tracker perks
- Combat Bow, Spy Plane, CounterSpy Plane, and Care Package Scorestreaks, among others
For the full ruleset visit the Official Call of Duty League website.
Community Reaction
Reactions to the original Nov 21 changes have been varied. Esports News site ESTNN said that the Semtex ban is interesting, especially since it was a staple in previous seasons.
“They use a Semtex because you are able to know where it will be landing, whereas a frag can roll to any position,” ESTNN said. “This reduces the chance of a teamkill and is crucial to competitive play.”
On Nov, 23, the Semtex restriction was removed, but players continue to express concerns over tactical rifles and auto-aim.
Some players are calling out smoke grenades for replacing skill.
I'll be the one to say it. This smoke warfare we played last year and are currently playing again is the corniest version of respawn gameplay we have ever had.
— Lamar ❄️ (@AccuracyLA) November 19, 2020
Meanwhile, others believe they are necessary due to map design skewed toward ARs.
I feel like breaking some of these hills without one smoke is almost impossible especially with a sub. There needs to be at least one on the map
— FaZe aBeZy (@aBeZy) November 19, 2020
Others are more concerned with overpowered perks and equipment thanks to wild cards.
If people are concerned with smokes get rid of them but get rid of the wild cards that allow people to perk stack. That way tacticals mean something when it comes to breaking a hill. Two trophy players per team with gearhead allowed.
— Chris ?? (@Parasite) November 28, 2020
Despite the disappointment, most players are happy Domination isn’t returning and expect additional changes to better align with their interest.
Nowhere near as bad as everyone makes it sound rn. Everyone should be happy as hell knowing we aren’t in for another year of DOM
— Stam (@Stamino_) November 29, 2020
How do you feel about the current ruleset? Stay tuned to the Competition Center for further developments!