How To Change Your Username on COD?
Changing your username on Call of Duty (COD) involves either using a Token for Activision accounts or altering your platform’s account name (PlayStation, Xbox, Steam). The specific steps and availability of free name changes depend on the platform and the nature of your Activision account.
Understanding Call of Duty Usernames: A Deeper Dive
Call of Duty usernames, also known as Activision IDs or Display Names, are how you’re identified across various COD titles. Unlike traditional platform usernames, these are linked directly to your Activision account, allowing cross-platform play and progression. Changing this name offers a fresh identity within the game, which can be useful for various reasons.
The Benefits of Changing Your COD Username
Why would you want to change your COD username? There are several reasons:
- Branding: If you’re a streamer or content creator, a consistent and memorable username is crucial for building your brand.
- Privacy: You might want to distance yourself from an old username that contains personal information or associations you no longer want.
- New Beginning: Perhaps you’ve had a particularly bad streak and want to shed the baggage associated with your old ID.
- Just for Fun: Sometimes, you simply want a change, to express your personality, or reflect current trends.
Changing Your Activision Account Username
This is the most direct method if you are playing on a platform that links to an Activision account. You’ll need an Activision Rename Token (if available).
- Log in to your Activision account: Go to the Activision website and log in with your credentials.
- Navigate to Profile: Find the profile section, usually under “Account Linking” or a similar tab.
- Look for Username/Activision ID: Identify the option to change your username.
- Use a Rename Token (If Applicable): If you have a token, you can use it to change your name.
- Enter Your New Name: Choose a new, unique username that meets the game’s naming requirements.
- Confirm the Change: Review and confirm the change to apply the new username.
Changing Your Username on PlayStation, Xbox, or Steam
If your COD username is linked directly to your console or PC account, changing it there will usually reflect in the game.
- PlayStation: Change your Online ID via your PlayStation Network account settings. Note that the first change is often free, but subsequent changes might incur a fee.
- Xbox: Change your Gamertag through your Xbox Live account settings. The first change is typically free; subsequent changes require payment.
- Steam: Changing your Steam profile name will not directly alter your COD username. The COD username is tied to your Activision Account and must be changed there if you want a new COD display name. However, you can change your display name on Steam itself if you wish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Changing Your Username
- Not Having a Rename Token: Ensure you have a token before initiating the name change process on Activision accounts.
- Ignoring Naming Restrictions: COD has rules about acceptable usernames (character limits, prohibited words). Adhere to these rules to avoid errors.
- Forgetting Login Information: Remember your Activision account credentials (email and password) to access the settings.
- Not Checking Availability: Ensure the username you want is available before committing to the change.
- Assuming Free Changes: Understand that not all platforms or Activision accounts offer free name changes. Check the associated costs beforehand.
Impact on Friends List and Stats
Changing your username shouldn’t affect your friends list, as it’s tied to your Activision account, not just your display name. Your stats are also linked to your account and should remain intact. However, inform your friends of the change so they recognize you.
Activision Rename Token Explained
An Activision Rename Token allows you to change your Activision ID. These tokens are sometimes given out as part of promotions, or players might earn them through gameplay or special events. If you do not possess a Token, there may be an option to purchase one. However, this option is not always available.
Table: Comparing Methods for Changing COD Usernames
| Method | Platform | Requires Token? | Cost? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Activision Account Change | All Platforms | Yes (Usually) | Varies | Changes your Activision ID, affecting all COD titles linked to the account. |
| PlayStation Change | PlayStation | No (First time) | Possible Fee | Changes your PSN Online ID, which might reflect in COD. |
| Xbox Change | Xbox | No (First time) | Possible Fee | Changes your Xbox Gamertag, which might reflect in COD. |
| Steam Change | PC (via Steam) | No | Free | Does not directly change your COD username, only your Steam profile name. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How often can I change my username on COD?
It depends. For Activision accounts, you can only change your username when you have a Rename Token. These tokens are not always readily available. PlayStation and Xbox typically allow a free change initially, but subsequent changes come with a fee.
Will changing my username affect my stats or progress?
No. Your stats and progress are tied to your underlying account (Activision, PlayStation, or Xbox), not just your display name. They should remain intact after a username change.
Can I use special characters in my COD username?
The specific characters allowed vary, but typically, only alphanumeric characters (letters and numbers) and certain special characters (like underscores or hyphens) are permitted. Check the game’s naming restrictions.
Is it possible to change my username for free?
Potentially. The first name change on PlayStation and Xbox is often free. Keep an eye on Activision promotions that might offer free Rename Tokens.
What if the username I want is already taken?
Unfortunately, you’ll have to choose a different username. Usernames must be unique within the Call of Duty system. Consider variations or additions (numbers, underscores) to find an available option.
Will changing my username affect my friends list?
No, changing your username will not remove any of your friends. Your friends list is tied to your account, not your displayed name.
How do I get an Activision Rename Token if I don’t have one?
Keep an eye out for special promotions or events where Activision gives away Rename Tokens. They are not always available for purchase.
What happens if I violate the naming restrictions when choosing a username?
Your name change might be rejected, or your account could face penalties. Ensure your chosen name adheres to the game’s terms of service.
If I change my PlayStation Network ID, will it automatically change my COD username?
It depends. If your COD account is linked to your PSN account, the name might update automatically. However, this isn’t always guaranteed, and you might still need to change your Activision ID separately.
Can I revert back to my old username if I don’t like the new one?
Only if you have another Rename Token available. Once you change your username, the old one might become available to others.
Does changing my username affect my ranking in competitive modes?
No. Your ranking is tied to your skill rating and account, not your display name.
I have linked my accounts to COD can I use multiple usernames?
No. Your COD username is tied to your single linked Activision account. While you might have separate PlayStation, Xbox, or Steam names, your Activision ID is the name that appears within Call of Duty games.