Notorious game developers, Infinity Ward, stirred the gaming arena by pushing the envelope with various innovative changes in Warzone 2. However, amidst the series of transformations and rebounding attempts, one decision stands aloof. Despite becoming a lightning rod for criticism from players globally, the developers have steadfastly refused to reintroduce slide canceling into the game.

Warzone 2 attempted to enhance the original battle royale paradigm by implementing features like 2v2 gulag duels, the use of AI adversaries, backpacks, and more. Infusing controversial elements into the gameplay ecosystem wasn’t off their table either. They chose to purge some longstanding features, including loadout drops and the much-loved slide canceling.

The reception from players towards these changes wasn’t exactly warm. The new decisions didn't endure nor resonate positively with a majority of players. Consequently, Infinity Ward retraced many of their landmark moves for Warzone 2; they reincorporated the original gulag system, eliminated backpacks, and severely reduced the number of AI foes present on their gaming map.

ModernWarzone conducted a poll among community members to gauge their sentiments around this particular change. The poll received a landslide response, with over 45,000 participants casting their votes. A considerable majority expressed discontent, with 64% of the voters indicating that they were unhappy about the decision to exclude slide canceling from Warzone's gameplay elements. It was more than a mere show of sentiment - it was a robust assertion by avid players on what they value in-game mechanics.

The echo chambers of community voices swayed many alterations in Warzone 2, with even reinstating loadout drops after significant community uproar. One seemingly immovable decision from Infinity Ward, irrespective of player sentiments, is their resolve to not reintegrate slide canceling back into Warzone 2’s gameplay—a design preferment causing perpetual frustration among fans.

In conclusion, while Infinity Ward seems open to molding some aspects of Warzone 2 based on user feedback and experience reflections so far, the rigid stance on the withdrawal of slide canceling remains an intriguing focal point. Albeit controversial decisions are part and parcel when it comes to game development, the Warzone sequel journey reflects that balancing innovation while retaining core aspects loved by fans is a tricky but crucial aspect for prolonged success.