Philippe Etchebest Joins Call of Duty Black Ops 7, Fans Outraged

by Jonathan Dubinski October 27, 2025

written by Jonathan Dubinski October 27, 2025

Key Takeaways

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Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 trailer features Michelin-starred chef Philippe Etchebest in a celebrity cameo, sparking debate about the integration of celebrities and microtransactions within gaming.
The use of high-profile partnerships like Etchebests appearance has divided the gaming community, with some players expressing concerns that it detracts from the games core focus and encourages microtransactions.
The inclusion of celebrities in Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 is part of a broader strategy by Activision to attract attention and boost sales ahead of its November 14 launch.
Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 faces increased competition, player fatigue, and controversy over microtransactions as it enters its twentieth year, leaving uncertainty about the franchises future success.

Call of Duty Black Ops 7 Trailer Sparks Debate with Philippe Etchebest’s Celebrity Cameo

Activision released a surprise trailer for Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 on October 26, ahead of the game’s November 14 launch. The clip features Michelin-starred Bordeaux chef Philippe Etchebest, known for appearances on shows like Top Chef, being summoned by a military unit before driving off in a black Mustang, reminiscent of a James Bond film. Activision’s inclusion of Etchebest in Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 is part of a broader strategy of using celebrity cameos, a tactic that has drawn varied reactions from the gaming world. On September 30, EA’s Battlefield 6 trailer humorously mocked these high-profile partnerships, garnering over 4 million views and sparking discussion on social media. Etchebest’s appearance in the Black Ops 7 trailer has further fueled this debate. Community reactions to Etchebest’s appearance are sharply divided. As one fan jokingly stated, “Throw me Philippe Etchebest skin, I’ll play all year long.” However, this sentiment highlights a key point of contention: Some players believe that these celebrity integrations, often linked to paid skins, detract from the game’s core focus, shifting it towards microtransactions. Many feel that game development is being overshadowed by advertising campaigns.

Call of Duty Black Ops 7’s Future Amid Competition, Player Fatigue, and Microtransactions Debate

Activision’s approach to Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 presents both opportunities and challenges. The first-person shooter franchise, now in its twentieth year, faces increasing competition, player fatigue, and ongoing controversy surrounding microtransactions. It remains to be seen whether this latest installment will prove beneficial or detrimental to the franchise’s future.

In Case You Missed It

While we were reminiscing about the golden age of gaming, our thoughts naturally turned to what the future holds for these classic franchises. As it turns out, Saudi Arabia has some exciting plans in motion! Jonathan Dubinski’s recent article from October 2025 reveals how the kingdom is investing $1 billion to bring beloved SNK games like Fatal Fury and Metal Slug to life on the big screen under former Lionsgate head Erick Feig Saudi Arabia Injects $1 Billion to Make ‘The King of Fighters’ Movies with Former Lionsgate Head. Meanwhile, Marcus Thompson’s article from the same day showcases another form of immersion with the enchanting soundtrack of “Towa and the Guardians of the Sacred Tree,” now available for streaming on major platforms like iTunes and Spotify Soundtrack of Towa and the Guardians of the Sacred Tree Now Available on Top Music Streaming Platforms. And speaking of immersive experiences, if you’re a Netflix enthusiast like myself, don’t miss Bruno Pferd’s latest roundup. Published on October 20th, his post highlights this week’s must-watch lineup, featuring cult classics and highly anticipated new releases Netflix: This Week’s Releases Featuring Cult Films and a Highly Anticipated New Release.