Activision shuts down 'dream' Modern Warfare 2 mod after over two years' work

(Image credit: Activision)

After over two years of development, a huge mod for Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 is ceasing development.

Known only as "SM2," the massive mod promised to overhaul the original Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 with well over 100 weapons, and revamped gameplay systems like the ping ability. 24 Perks, dedicated melee weapon slots, party chat voice features, and unique progression systems were all promised in the SM2 mod, as a dream game for Call of Duty players.

Today, a team member received a Cease & Desist letter on behalf of Activision Publishing in relation to the sm² project. We are complying with this order and shutting down all operations permanently. Thank you all for your support over the past 2 years.May 17, 2023

SM2 hopefuls are gathering together on Twitter to mourn the loss of the prestigious mod. "This has made me incredibly sad," one user wrote, with another adding "All my homies hate Activision." One popular post even uses that much-memed 'Press F to pay respects' prompt from Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare to mourn the passing of the SM2 mod.

You can get a glimpse of what SM2 would've been via the gameplay video below. The mod truly would've been a gigantic overhaul for the classic Infinity Ward sequel, seamlessly integrating brand new weapons and Killstreaks into the shooter, and effectively breathing new life into what many believe to be the best Call of Duty game ever made.

It's a sad day for Call of Duty fans, then, and particularly classic Modern Warfare enjoyers. For what it's worth, COD Tracker dubbed this project a "dream game" for any Call of Duty fan, so there are probably legions of fans out there really feeling this cancellation as a kick in the gut.

A recent report claimed Call of Duty 2023 is an extension of Modern Warfare 2, so there's at least good news for those who enjoy the more recent offerings of the Modern Warfare series.

Check out our new games 2023 guide for a look at everything else slated to launch over the remainder of the year.

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Hirun Cryer is a freelance reporter and writer with Gamesradar+ based out of U.K. After earning a degree in American History specializing in journalism, cinema, literature, and history, he stepped into the games writing world, with a focus on shooters, indie games, and RPGs, and has since been the recipient of the MCV 30 Under 30 award for 2021. In his spare time he freelances with other outlets around the industry, practices Japanese, and enjoys contemporary manga and anime.