The latest Call of Duty update has launched the highly anticipated Black Ops Tribute event, bringing a massive slate of content for players across Warzone, multiplayer, and Zombies. Alongside the return of the nail gun, the update features new limited-time game modes, a comic-themed DLC bundle, exclusive rewards including the John Black Ops operator skin, and the debut of the C9 10MM conversion kit.

With a long list of unlockable cosmetics and one of the most grind-heavy XP events in recent seasons, here’s everything you need to know about the Black Ops Tribute event and the best ways to complete it fast.

Black Ops Tribute event details and end date

The Black Ops Tribute event officially kicked off today and is scheduled to run for two weeks, ending on May 1, 2025. The event includes a progression system based on XP, requiring players to accumulate 617,000 XP to unlock every reward — including the long-awaited nail gun and a suite of exclusive Black Ops 6 items.

The event is accessible across multiplayer, Zombies, and Warzone, allowing players to earn XP through their preferred mode.

New playlists in multiplayer, Warzone, and Zombies

To support the event, the update has introduced several playlist changes:

  • Multiplayer Playlists:
  • Demolition 10v10
  • Search and Destroy
  • 6v6 Gunfight
  • Warzone Playlists (April 17–24):
  • Verdansk Battle Royale: Solos, Duos, Trios, Quads
  • Rebirth Resurgence: Duos, Trios, Quads
  • Plunder Quads
  • Boot Camp Quads
  • Zombies:
  • Team Cranked mode, offering non-stop zombie spawns for high XP farming

One notable change is the removal of Area 9 from Warzone, with no timeline yet for its return. Rebirth Island will continue to be the main Resurgence map during this event period.

Nail gun returns via Comic Bonanza bundle or free event reward

The nail gun, a fan-favorite from past titles, is back and available in two ways:

  1. Comic Bonanza Bundle (1,600 COD Points):
  • Redcon Nail Gun Blueprint with comic-style red/yellow tracers
  • AK-74 Single Issue Blueprint
  • Cleaver Comic Cutout Melee Blueprint
  • Comic-style death effects
  • “One Two” finishing move
  • Legendary weapon charm, reticle, spray, and emblem
  1. Black Ops Tribute Event Completion (617,000 XP)

Early gameplay testing reveals that the nail gun is not a meta weapon — it features no attachment slots, limited ammo (15 rounds), and high damage falloff. It’s fun to use for grinding camo or private matches but is not viable in Warzone or competitive multiplayer.

C9 10MM conversion kit explained

Another new weapon addition is the C9 10MM conversion kit, which alters the standard C9 with new firepower. However, unlike previous MW3 aftermarket parts, it requires two separate attachments: one for the magazine and another for fire modification.

Initial tests in private match show mild performance upgrades, but it doesn’t match top-tier weapons like the Kilo or AX in terms of time-to-kill or recoil control. It could be useful in specific loadouts, but it’s unlikely to shake up the meta.

All Black Ops Tribute event rewards and unlock XP requirements

The event is stacked with free content, including cosmetics, weapon kits, and exclusive Black Ops 6 bonuses. Here’s a full list of what you’ll earn:

  • 10,000 XP: Intimidation Tactics weapon sticker
  • 40,000 XP: Bomb on Wheels spray
  • 76,000 XP: Liberating Air loading screen
  • BO6 Exclusive: On the House GobbleGum (Zombies)
  • 123,000 XP: Operatives large decal
  • 180,000 XP: Thermite lethal equipment (Warzone only)
  • BO6 Exclusive: Close Shave perk
  • 248,000 XP: C9 10MM Conversion Kit
  • 326,000 XP: Call It In emblem
  • BO6 Exclusive: Violet Sight reticle
  • 414,000 XP: 45-minute double weapon XP token
  • BO6 Exclusive: Crate Power GobbleGum
  • 511,000 XP: Blazing Wind calling card
  • BO6 Exclusive: Rest Stop emote
  • 617,000 XP:
  • Steer melee blueprint (campaign model)
  • Nail Gun
  • Death Machine scorestreak (BO6 multiplayer and zombies only)
  • John Black Ops operator skin

Learn more about the Black Ops Tribute eventfrom Tridzo on YouTube.

How to unlock the John Black Ops skin

To unlock the John Black Ops operator skin, you’ll need to complete the entire event and own Black Ops 6 multiplayer. Alternatively, Xbox Game Pass users with BO6 access will also unlock the skin. Some players are experimenting with starting a free trial of Game Pass during the event in hopes of keeping the operator permanently, though results may vary.

Strangely, John Black Ops is aligned with the Crimson One faction, even though his name suggests Rogue Black Ops. Once unlocked, he’s usable in all modes, including Warzone, Zombies, and multiplayer.

Best way to complete the Black Ops Tribute event fast

Top XP farming tips:

  1. Team Cranked in Zombies
  • Consistent zombie spawns and no round delays
  • Earn up to 100K XP per match
  • Ideal for grinding with unused weapons for camo challenges
  1. Plunder or Resurgence in Warzone
  • Better XP yield than casual BR
  • Focus on contracts and high-kill games
  • Use XP tokens for faster progress
  1. Daily Challenges and Camo Grinding
  • Use under-leveled weapons to earn camo XP
  • BlackCell users get additional daily XP tasks
  • Check the event tracker to maximize each session

Avoid:

  • Solo Battle Royale for XP farming (bots give lower XP)
  • Buying the nail gun bundle if you’re purely chasing meta weapons

Is the grind worth it?

If you’re a collector, a Zombies fan, or simply want to unlock John Black Ops, this event is worth your time. The nail gun may not be competitive, but the sheer amount of content — including GobbleGums, exclusive perks, and BO6 bonuses — makes this one of the most rewarding limited-time events in recent memory.

To keep up with daily event progress, operator bundle drops, and Warzone updates, check out CODIntel for official announcements.

FAQ: Black Ops Tribute event in Call of Duty

How long is the Black Ops Tribute event?

The event runs from April 17 to May 1, 2025.

Do I need to buy anything to unlock rewards?

No. All rewards, including the nail gun and John Black Ops skin, can be earned for free — if you own Black Ops 6 multiplayer.

Can I use the John Black Ops skin in Warzone?

Yes, the skin is usable in all game modes once unlocked.

Is the nail gun good in Warzone?

No. It’s fun but underpowered and lacks attachments. It’s more of a novelty weapon.

How much XP is needed to finish the event?

You’ll need a total of 617,000 XP to unlock all rewards.

This event offers one of the most unique reward tracks in recent Call Of Duty history, with something for every kind of player — whether you’re a Warzone grinder, Zombies specialist, or multiplayer sweat. Just don’t expect the nail gun to carry you through ranked.