How to Take an Enemy Hostage in Black Ops 7

By Daniel Hidalgo | 2025-11-16 14:14:06
The hostage takedown is one of the most tactically satisfying and intimidating moves in Call of Duty: Black Ops 7. More than just a flashy melee kill, it allows you to seize an enemy combatant and use them as a human shield, creating a dynamic and powerful advantage on the battlefield. This advanced maneuver can turn the tide of a close-quarters engagement, providing both protection and a psychological edge.If you're ready to add this powerful technique to your skillset, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

The Hostage Takedown: Controls and Execution

Pulling off a successful hostage grab is all about positioning and timing. You cannot perform this move from the front; it requires a stealthy approach from directly behind an unsuspecting enemy.Once you are in position, the input is consistent across all platforms but varies by controller type:
  • On PC: Double-tap the V key by default.
  • On Console (Xbox & PlayStation): Double-click the Right Stick (R3).
Important Note: If you have customized your controller layout or keybinds, the command will always be a double-tap of your assigned melee attack button.Upon a successful grab, your operator will swiftly subdue the enemy, holding them in front of you as a living body shield. You can now move slowly, using your hostage to absorb incoming fire from their own teammates.

Finishing Your Hostage: Kill or Execute?

Once you have an enemy in your grasp, you have two distinct options for their final fate. The choice is situational and can impact your survival.

  • Quick Kill (Single Tap): A single press of your melee button will swiftly dispatch the hostage.This is the pragmatic choice when you are in immediate danger and needto re-engage other threats quickly. It’s fast, efficient, and gets youback into the fight.
  • Stylish Execution (Double Tap): Double-tapping the melee button again will initiate a unique, cinematic execution animation. While this is far more humiliating for youropponent and rewarding for you, it leaves you vulnerable for a longerperiod. Only perform an execution when you are confident the area issecure.
  • Pro-Tactics for Successful Hostage Grabs

    Successfully grabbing enemies consistently requires more than just knowing thebutton combo. Implement these strategies to become a master of thetakedown.

    • Equip the Ninja Perk: The single most important tool for this playstyle is the Ninja Perk. By drastically quieting your footsteps, it becomes infinitely easier to sneak up on sound-aware enemies without detection. Be aware that Ninjais typically unlocked later (around level 53), so you may need to rankup before this strategy becomes fully viable.
    • Play the Objective (and the Predictions): Objective-based modes are a hunting ground for hostage takedowns. In modes like Domination, Hardpoint, and Search & Destroy, players are funneled toward specific points on the map. Use your gamesense to predict enemy routes, set up ambushes, and flank theirpositions. Instead of running head-on into the objective, find analternative path and catch them from behind as they focus on the goal.
    • Master the Maps: Knowledge of the game's maps is crucial. Learn common camping spots,high-traffic lanes, and flanking routes. By understanding where enemiesare likely to be looking, you can approach from their blind spots andline up the perfect takedown.

    Master the hostage technique, and you won't just win gunfights—you'll dominate the psychological battlefield in Call of Duty: Black Ops 7.

    Tags: CoD,BO7, call of Duty,
    Platform(s): Xbox One, PlayStation 4 PS4, PlayStation 5 PS5, Microsoft Windows PC, Xbox Series X/S
    Genre(s): first-person shooter
    Developer(s): Treyarch, Raven Software
    Publisher(s): Activision
    Engine: IW engine
    Mode: Single-player, multiplayer
    Age rating (PEGI): +18
    Video preview



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