What to know

  • Deadline is a new limited-time mode (LTM) in Call of Duty: Warzone 2.0 added with the Season Five Reloaded update on September 4, 2025.
  • It’s played on the classic Verdansk map, with squads competing over scores, not just survival.
  • You get unlimited respawns, but after each circle collapse, the lowest-scoring squad is eliminated and replaced by AI bots.
  • Victory goes to the squad with the highest score in the final circle, demanding constant aggressive gameplay.

Warzone keeps reinventing itself with new twists, and Deadline is one of the boldest yet. Instead of simply outlasting rivals, you’ll need to outscore them at every stage. This mode blends nonstop action, strategy, and survival into a fast-paced fight for dominance on Verdansk.

What is Deadline in COD Warzone?

Deadline is a fresh twist on Warzone’s Resurgence mode, launched on September 4, 2025, as part of the Season Five Reloaded update.

Set on the iconic Verdansk map, Deadline swaps elimination for performance: while you do have unlimited respawns like in Resurgence, your squad can't afford to fall behind in points. At the end of each gas circle, the lowest-scoring squad is eliminated, and bots move in to keep the chaos rising. Unlike traditional Battle Royale, the winning squad is the one with the highest score in the final circle, not necessarily the last one standing.

How to score points

Your survival depends entirely on your score, so here's how to boost it:

  • Eliminations: Score by taking out enemy players—AI bots also count but offer fewer points.
  • Contracts: Completing contracts gives quick, high-value points.
  • Loot & Supply Crates: Opening crates nets points, so keep looting.
  • Buying and spending: Investing in Buy Stations not only helps you gear up but also adds to your score.
  • Killstreaks & tactical moves: Activating killstreaks or using tactical maneuvers earns extra points.

Strategies for survival and victory

Since every circle resets the scoreboard, staying ahead requires constant effort:

  • Stay aggressive—don’t camp. Sitting back is a quick path to elimination.
  • Communicate & divide tasks within the squad: one loots, another grabs contracts, others push enemies.
  • Prioritize contracts to gain points fast and catch up if trailing.
  • Adapt to bot pressure—when squads are eliminated, bot waves spike the chaos.
  • Keep consistent scoring; even if you die, respawn quickly and stay in the fight—your score reset means every circle is a new chance.

Community reactions

Players on r/CODWarzone share mixed thoughts:

“I just had to sweat my ass off for 26 kills and lost to people camping edge of ring avoiding fights.”
“It seems like big map resurgence with bots sporadically dropping around making it harder to distinguish enemies.”

While some enjoy the high-octane format, others find it punishing if squads camp or avoid action.

Who is the Deadline mode for?

Deadline is for players who thrive under pressure—the relentless pace, constant scoring, and no downtime aren’t for everyone. If you prefer strategy and survival over raw aggression, it might feel overwhelming. But if aggressive play and score-chasing energize you, Deadline delivers a thrilling new way to experience Verdansk.