20 MORE Pointless Video Game Mechanics Nobody Used

Almost two decades after its release, Call Of Duty 4: Modern Warfare remains one of the most beloved entries in the long-running franchise. Alongside featuring some of the most unforgettable campaign missions in the whole series, its online multiplayer was revolutionary and would go on to form the foundation for the genre.

Its maps were meticulously designed, progression was satisfying, and the moment-to-moment gameplay was exhilarating. It was also the first title in the franchise to introduce perks, which added meaningful twists to loadouts. Most of these perks were incredibly useful. Sleight Of Hand halved reload time, Stopping Power increased bullet damage, and players could even equip a second primary weapon with Overkill.

Not all of them were helpful, though, with Eavesdrop being a notable exception.

Unlocked at level 35, Eavesdrop enabled players to hear voice chat from nearby enemies. While the intention was to let sneaky players learn what their opponents were planning, anyone who played this game will know they'd be more likely to hear someone yelling colourful insults than discussing gameplay tactics.

Eavesdrop was so disliked by the community that it never appeared in future instalments. Unfortunately, it wasn't removed for Modern Warfare's otherwise excellent 2016 remaster.