The Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) has recently published its age classification for the upcoming Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, sparking discussions among fans about the potential return of the controversial 'Carry Forward' feature. This system would enable players to transfer cosmetic items like weapon blueprints and operator skins from previous Call of Duty titles to the new installment.

Given the consecutive releases of Black Ops games, Activision's decision to reintroduce this feature isn't entirely unexpected. However, the community remains divided, with some players expressing frustration over the inclusion of unrealistic skins in what is traditionally a military-themed shooter.

The ESRB's rating description for Black Ops 7 mentions mature content, including violent executions and hallucinatory sequences. Notably, it references a specific finishing move involving drug use—a feature currently present in Black Ops 6. This detail has led many to speculate that cosmetic items will indeed carry over to the new game.

The debate over the Carry Forward feature continues to polarize the Call of Duty community. Some argue that purchased content should remain accessible across titles, while others believe the feature undermines the game's realism. Social media platforms have become battlegrounds for these opposing viewpoints, with players like Twitter user Nate advocating for the feature's restriction to Warzone, while others, such as Hovy, defend their right to retain paid cosmetics.

Earlier this year, rumors suggested that Activision was reconsidering its approach to in-game skins due to player backlash. Collaborations with franchises like Squid Game and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles have drawn criticism for clashing with the game's tone. Despite this, the financial success of these crossovers has made it difficult for the publisher to abandon them entirely.

As Black Ops 7's release approaches, the community remains split on whether the Carry Forward feature enhances player experience or detracts from the game's identity. With Activision yet to confirm its plans officially, fans can only speculate about the future of cosmetic transfers in the franchise.