The launch trailer is the most hallowed of all game trailers. This is the one last chance that a game developer or publsher has to sell you on their game before the scathing reviews come out. That’s probably not going to happen to the latest Call of Duty game, but that’s not stopped them from releasing their launch trailer a month before the game actually launches.

As you’re all aware by now, Black Ops 2 takes place in the near future of 2025. It’s here that our intrepid heroes make their way through a world where terrorists have commandeered the very technology that the U.S. government built to protect us. There’s also a subplot involving everybody’s favorite Russian phantom Viktor Reznov.

As you can see, Call of Duty has not lost its ability to craft amazing set pieces. I’m sure it will be a blast. Black Ops was my favorite of the “modern” entries in the series, and Black Ops 2 may just continue that tradition after the disappointing Modern Warfare 3.

The trailer is also quick to remind gamers that those who pre-order are able to access the Nuketown 2025 multiplayer map as well as a Double XP weekend when the game first launches. Black Ops 2 also marks the transition of Call of Duty Elite going completely free. The map packs will now be sold in season passes which are becoming increasingly popular among publishers.

Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 will be available for Xbox 360, PS3 and PC on November 13.