Call of Duty: Ghosts (a R. Talsorian Games Cyberpunk Story):
by Mike Pondsmith and Dave Alistair [ Graphic Novel / MiniSeries | War ]
A sequel to the events of
Call of Duty: Tijuana Takedown, set against the backdrop of the Central American Wars in the cyberpunk world, unfolds a harrowing tale. In response to the devastating 2nd US-Mexico War, the oil-producing nations of Latin America, including Venezuela, Chile, Argentina, and Brazil, unite to form the Federation of the Americas. As their power grows exponentially, the Federation launches a series of calculated invasions, swiftly conquering Central America, the Caribbean, and even the newly acquired US territory of Mexico. In a desperate bid to reclaim lost ground, the United States initiates a counter-invasion, plunging both nations into a prolonged and grueling conflict over territory. [ The strain of this war ultimately leads to the collapse of the United States, paving the way for the rise of the Megacorps as the controlling force in the newly formed New United States of America (NUSA). ]
But amidst this chaos and geopolitical upheaval, a group known as the Ghosts takes center stage. Comprised of highly skilled U.S. Special Operations personnel, they are trained in the art of covert operations. Led by the seasoned retired U.S. Army Captain Elias Walker, the team includes his sons Logan and David "Hesh" Walker, accompanied by their loyal German Shepherd named Riley. Joining them are Captain Thomas Merrick and Gunnery Sergeant Keegan P. Russ.
The story begins with Elias Walker captivating his sons with the legend of the Ghosts, recounting the origins of this elite coalition of U.S. Special Operations units. Meanwhile, the Federation seizes control of the Orbital Defense Initiative (ODIN), a formidable orbital superweapon comprised of satellites capable of unleashing devastating kinetic bombardments. Exploiting their newfound power, the Federation unleashes destruction upon several cities in the southwestern United States. In a desperate act of sacrifice, U.S. Air Force astronauts self-destruct the space station to prevent further devastation.
As the narrative unfolds, the Federation expands its control through ruthless invasions, occupying Central America, the Caribbean, and Mexico. A grueling war of attrition ensues between the United States and the Federation, with a heavily fortified frontline known as "No Man's Land" bisecting the Mexican territory. Hesh and Logan, now integral members of their father's Ghost unit, embark on daring missions to rescue their captured comrade, Ajax, and confront the treacherous Gabriel Rorke, a turncoat operative.
Through a series of intense battles, including a Federation assault on Santa Monica, California, the Walker family reunites amidst the chaos. Elias, revealed as the enigmatic leader of the Ghosts, recruits his sons into the unit, sharing the tragic tale of Rorke's transformation from a revered Ghost leader to a brainwashed operative for the Federation. Determined to bring justice to their fallen comrades, the Ghosts mount a daring assault on Rorke's heavily fortified base. However, their valiant efforts are thwarted when Federation forces destroy their escape plane, leaving them trapped and vulnerable.
Undeterred, the indomitable Ghosts uncover the Federation's plans for a new and more devastating superweapon. Launching a daring counterattack, they systematically dismantle key Federation installations, including their own version of ODIN known as LOKI. With each victory, the Ghosts inch closer to turning the tide of the war...even as corporate interests seemingly act against them with the unveiling of their barely disciplined PMC forces, with one of them, a Pvt. Robert John Linder, deserting them after one of the counter-assaults.
Yet, their triumphs are short-lived as Rorke and the Federation capture the Ghosts, leading to the heartbreaking execution of Elias. In a final desperate act, the remaining U.S. forces launch a daring and audacious assault, utilizing their last remaining aircraft carrier and collaborating with the U.S. Space Force. It is during this climactic battle that Hesh and Logan, consumed by vengeance, take it upon themselves to infiltrate the Federation's space center, determined to confront Rorke and put an end to his reign of terror once and for all.
In a thrilling and heart-wrenching showdown, Rorke shoots Logan and leaves him to drown, believing he has claimed victory. However, against all odds, Logan survives, only to be captured by Rorke, who intends to subject him to the same brainwashing torment he himself had endured.
The story concludes with a post-credits scene, revealing Logan imprisoned and subjected to the merciless methods of Rorke, leaving the fate of the protagonist uncertain and casting a shadow of uncertainty over the future.
A/N: Roommate has been really into the new CoD beta, talking about how they're reintroducing a few of the mechanics from Ghosts has got me nostalgic, so...yeah.
