Modern Warfare 2: Weapon Tuning Explained

"Call of Duty" has its latest entry with the release of "Modern Warfare 2." Receiving solid reviews so far, the military shooter brings a host of new features (like aquatic maneuvers and ledge hanging) and new game modes for competitive multiplayer. It also offers more options than ever for customizing weapons and constructing player loadouts.

With some weapons much better than others, numerous attachments, and lots of perks and bits of equipment to choose from, the combinations can feel endless. Already, fans are experimenting with different combinations, seeking the best loadout for weapons like the M16 and the 556 Icarus. As it turns out, there is even more customization to be had this time around.

In addition to all the options for building a loadout, "Modern Warfare 2" also introduces weapon tuning to the game. This feature allows for fine tuning of weapons by modifying their various attachments. Doing so allows for even greater control of a weapon's stats, giving players the ability to craft the perfect weapon for their playstyle. While it sounds complicated, weapon tuning is fortunately quite simple once it has been unlocked.

The first thing to note when thinking about weapon tuning is that it's only possible on a weapon that has been fully leveled up. Any operator that wants to have maximum control over their weapon's stats will need to pick one early and spend plenty of time with it before tuning will be possible. Thankfully, this should give players the time they need to learn the strengths and weaknesses of any specific weapon and figure out what attachments they favor.

Once a weapon's level has been maxed out, players need only head to the Gunsmith and install some attachments. While attachments can be unlocked and added to weapons much earlier, viewing them after reaching max level will reveal another option to tune each attachment.

In the tuning menu, players will be presented with two sliders that affect two different attributes of the attachment (like weight and length). Moving one slider will automatically change the other, which will have a negative or positive impact on various stats on the weapon. For example, changing accuracy may decrease mobility, or increasing recoil control could reduce range. It's up to the player to decide just what stats they want to sacrifice and which they want to improve based on their playstyle.

The single exception to attachment tuning is with optic attachments. Scopes can be tuned, but not to adjust stats. When players tune a scope, they'll adjust how close their eye will move to the scope while aiming. Moving the view closer to the scope will allow for much better accuracy at range but will also give the player tunnel vision. Alternatively, staying further back will allow for better peripheral vision by sacrificing some accuracy. There's no right or wrong answer, it'll solely depend on player preference and weapon.

With a weapon capable of supporting up to five attachments and each being tuneable, fans now have an unprecedented degree of customization available. When planning a build and loadout, an experienced player can perfectly craft their weapon to support whatever role they're looking to fill. If preparation is the key to success, weapon tuning offers a great new tool to those seeking to dominate the battlefield.