Why is Kyle called Gaz? An In-Depth Investigation - 33rd Square (2024)

Hey there! As a fellow Call of Duty fanatic and gaming enthusiast, I know you’re just as curious as me about Kyle “Gaz” Garrick and the backstory behind his unusual callsign. I’ve played every Modern Warfare game multiple times, but this cryptic character has always left me wanting to know more.

In this extended blog post, we’ll take a deep dive into Gaz’s background, analyze every clues about his enigmatic nickname, and explore theories from devoted CoD experts. Strap in, because we’re going fully in-depth on the mystery of “Why is Kyle called Gaz?”

A Quick Modern Warfare Refresher

Let’s start with a quick refresher for context. The blockbuster Call of Duty series began all the way back in 2003 and has featured several iconic storylines. Modern Warfare kicked off in 2007 as a re-imagining of CoD by developers Infinity Ward.

The Modern Warfare sub-franchise follows British and American spec ops forces fighting against Russian extremist Vladimir Makarov. Players step into the boots of legendary characters like Captain John Price and John “Soap” MacTavish across thrilling missions around the globe.

Introducing Kyle “Gaz” Garrick

One of the most important yet mysterious characters in the original Modern Warfare was British SAS operative Kyle Garrick, known as “Gaz.” First appearing as Price’s ally in flashback missions, Gaz joined Price’s Task Force 141 unit alongside Soap.

This elite team carried out covert operations across Russia, Azerbaijan, Ukraine and the Middle East. As Price’s dependable right-hand man, Gaz supported critical missions to take down terrorist Zakhaev.

Gaz’s Background and History

Official bios for Gaz are sparse, but here’s what we know:

• British special forces veteran, served in the elite SAS
• Once under Lt. Price’s command during a mission in the Middle East
• After Price shot his corrupt commanding officer, Gaz and Price parted ways
• Years later, Price personally recruits Gaz into Task Force 141
• Joined Task Force 141 alongside new SAS member “Soap” MacTavish

From interactions between Price and Gaz, it’s implied they share a deep trust and history together from their past mission. Gaz rarely speaks about himself, keeping his background enigmatic.

The Meaning Behind “Gaz”

Upon recruiting Gaz to Task Force 141, Price assigns him the cryptic callsign “Gaz.” Price bluntly states: “His name‘s Gaz. He doesn‘t say much.”

This short explanation is our biggest clue about the nickname’s origins. According to Price, Gaz earned his moniker by being tight-lipped and only talking when absolutely necessary.

Price’s quote indicates Gaz prefers action over chatter, letting his skills speak louder than words. As an elite SAS veteran, he has no need for bravado or showboating.

Gaz‘s Personality and Characterization

Beyond being laconic, Gaz demonstrates other definitive traits:

Cool under pressure: In tense situations, Gaz maintains composure and focuses on the mission goals. During a nuke detonation in the Middle East, Gaz calmly guides Soap to safety amidst the chaos.

By-the-books: Gaz never questions direct orders or operational plans, even seemingly risky ones like going undercover as Russian security. He trusts Price‘s leadership completely.

Supportive: Gaz regularly assists teammates without being asked, offering tactical tips and watching their backs in combat.

Professional: He addresses all fellow soldiers including Price by title and last name, never informally. Gaz takes great pride in his SAS training.

Occasional compassion: At times Gaz shows moments of compassion, like insisting on extracting downed pilot Lt. Vasquez against orders.

These attributes reinforce Gaz’s identity as a consummate SAS professional who provides unwavering support to his fellow spec ops warriors.

Craig Fairbrass Brings Gaz to Life

Gaz’s memorable voice is provided by acclaimed British actor Craig Fairbrass. He gives Gaz a gritty, gravelly tone fitting for a seasoned spec ops veteran. Fairbrass’s grounded performance aligns perfectly with Gaz‘s realistic, cool-under-pressure attitude.

Fun fact: Fairbrass also voiced Gaz’s fellow Task Force 141 comrade Simon "Ghost" Riley in later Call of Duty games. This helped cement Gaz and Ghost’s similarities as soft-spoken elite operators.

Comparing Original Gaz to His Reboot

The 2019 Modern Warfare reboot introduced some changes to Gaz’s backstory and origins while keeping his key traits intact:

Original Gaz:

• British SAS veteran, serves under Capt. Price

• Recruited from SAS into Task Force 141

• Quiet professional, cool under fire

Rebooted Gaz:

• Ex-US Marine, now CIA operative

• Specializes in covert infiltration missions

• Still silent and professional, unwaveringly loyal to Price

So while some biographical details shifted, this new Gaz retains the same silent, committed personality that fans embraced. He fills an almost identical role as Price’s covert right-hand man.

Theories on Why “Gaz” Was Chosen

Let’s explore some theories on why “Gaz” was selected as this character’s callsign:

Short for Gareth/Gary

Gaz could be shorthand for his real first name Gareth or Gary. However, his full name is never revealed in the games.

Reference to “Gas”

The name “Gaz” resembles the word “gas,” possibly referring to his quiet, deadly abilities akin to chemical warfare.

Plot Mysteries

Keeping his real name hidden behind an ambiguous callsign adds to Gaz’s mysterious character and unknown origins.

Developer Intent

Ultimately, Infinity Ward likely chose the distinctive name “Gaz” to complement his enigmatic personality and lack of backstory.

Personally, I believe the developers deliberately selected the unique callsign “Gaz” to obscure this character’s identity and past. The unconventional name reflects his classified status as an elite spec ops warrior.

Could Gaz be Based on Real Special Forces?

Fans have speculated that Gaz was inspired by actual British SAS operatives. However, no concrete connection has been made between Gaz and any specific soldier.

According to the Special Air Service Regimental Association, the SAS does not officially comment on fictional adaptations of their regiment.

Gaz appears to be an amalgam of different special forces archetypes – the strong, silent professional who smoothly executes missions without ego. While certain real-world influences seem evident, Gaz remains his own unique character.

Gaz By the Numbers

Let‘s analyze some key stats on Gaz from the original Modern Warfare per the Call of Duty Wiki:

• Age: Early 30s (not confirmed)
• Height: 5‘11"
• Missions: Appears in 5 levels
• Total screen time: Approx 12 minutes
• Total lines of dialogue: Around 20

Despite his limited screen time and dialogue, Gaz made an immediate impact on fans through his standout character design and Craig Fairbrass’s pitch-perfect performance.

Gaz‘s Shocking Fate

Spoiler warning!

Gaz‘s death at the end of Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare was a gut-punch reveal that caught players off guard. After a cargo ship explosion, Zakhaev‘s men suddenly execute a critically injured Gaz at point blank range before Soap‘s eyes.

This crucial moment underscored the dark, unforgiving cost of war. It motivated Soap and Price‘s crusade to avenge Gaz in later Modern Warfare games. His brutal sacrifice made him an instant fan-favorite despite minimal screen time.

Gaz‘s Lasting Legacy in Call of Duty

While Gaz‘s time in the spotlight was tragically short, he left a tremendous mark on Call of Duty. As part of the original Modern Warfare‘s "holy trinity" with Soap and Price, Gaz helped cement this sub-series‘ reputation for compelling characters.

He demonstrated the courage and professionalism expected of special forces soldiers who carry out covert operations far from the public eye. Fans deeply connected with Gaz thanks to his undying loyalty and cool confidence even in the most impossible odds.

For myself and many Modern Warfare devotees, Gaz will always be remembered as a prime example of this franchise‘s unique blend of blockbuster thrills and gritty realism. His presence helped establish Call of Duty as gaming‘s preeminent first-person shooter experience.

Almost 15 years later, the enigmatic Gaz remains an enduring fan-favorite symbol of the original Modern Warfare’s grounded yet cinematic military storytelling. His legacy continues to inspire new followers and spur discussions across forums like this one.

So in summary, we may never know Kyle "Gaz" Garrick‘s full backstory, but his quiet heroism speaks volumes about the valor of dedicated special forces soldiers around the world. I hope this deep dive has given you new insight into this iconic Call of Duty character! Let me know if you have any other theories or questions on Gaz or Modern Warfare lore.

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