Modern Warfare II (2022) sticks fairly close to its gritty, military-action roots. While there are diverse characters and a somewhat international squad, the focus remains overwhelmingly on combat realism and team dynamics, not identity politics. Character abilities and arcs revolve more around military competence than forced representation, keeping the ideological material dialed way down, at least by today’s standards.

The game neither mocks nor undermines traditional values like patriotism, masculinity, or camaraderie. Religious, cultural, and military traditions are generally treated respectfully and are used for setting rather than lecturing. It explores conflict without rewriting history (as much as can be expected from a near-future shooter). No woke revisionism detected here.

While the game predictably steers clear of any controversial real-world issues (classic AAA fence-sitting!), there’s no overt villainization of alternative worldviews or forced political lessons. Characters come from various backgrounds, but they all fit believable stereotypes for military operations and nationalities. Alternate perspectives are present within the story conflict itself.