The Origin of the Name
When Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare was released in 2007, one of the most beloved characters was Captain John “Soap” Mactavish. Fans of the game have always wondered why he was given the nickname “Soap”. Some speculated that it was because he was “clean” and “pure”, while others thought it was because he had a habit of showering frequently. However, the real reason behind his nickname is much simpler.
A Tribute to a Real Soldier
The nickname “Soap” was actually inspired by a real-life soldier named John MacTavish. He was a member of the British Special Air Service (SAS) and was killed in action during the Gulf War. The developers of the game, Infinity Ward, wanted to pay tribute to this brave soldier by naming one of their characters after him. They decided to change the spelling slightly to “Mactavish” and add the nickname “Soap”.
Mactavish’s Character
Soap Mactavish quickly became a fan favorite due to his charismatic personality and exceptional skills in combat. He was a member of the British SAS and was the player character for a majority of the game’s campaign. He was also featured in the game’s sequel, Modern Warfare 2.
His Role in the Story
In the game’s story, Mactavish is a new member of the SAS and is mentored by Captain Price. Together, they work to stop the terrorist group known as the Ultranationalists. Mactavish is instrumental in the success of their missions and becomes a key player in the fight against the Ultranationalists.
The Legacy of Soap Mactavish
Soap Mactavish’s legacy extends beyond just his character in the Modern Warfare series. He has become an iconic figure in the Call of Duty franchise and is often referenced in other games. He even made a cameo appearance in the game Call of Duty: Ghosts.
A Fan Favorite
Fans of the series have continued to show their love for Soap Mactavish over the years. He is often referenced in memes and fan art, and there are even fan-made mods that allow players to play as him in other Call of Duty games.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the reason why Mactavish is called Soap is a tribute to a real-life soldier named John MacTavish. His character in the Modern Warfare series became a fan favorite due to his personality and combat skills, and he has left a lasting legacy in the Call of Duty franchise.