When a game franchise releases new installments every year, it reaches a point at which changes must be made. Past “Call of Duty” games have been mired in mediocrity, especially in the campaigns, where developers retreaded time and time again. Luckily, with “Black Ops II,” developer Treyarch saw the need for innovation and changed accordingly. Some changes are small but important, such as the ability to customize weapons before beginning missions. But it’s the bigger changes, such as the new Strike Force missions, that are most impressive. The game’s campaign is easily the best of the series, helped only by the Strike Force missions that can affect the game’s ending. However, it seems that Treyarch focused mainly on revamping the campaign, as innovations to the multiplayer component are few and far-between. Still, the multiplayer system is as fun, fast-paced and exciting as it’s always been. Between the replay value of the campaign and the perpetual fun of the multiplayer component, “Black Ops II” stands as one of the series’ most impressive outings yet.

Grade: A-