The famous Call of Duty Zombies makes a return this year with the release of Modern Warfare 3. Ever since the original Call of Duty World at War, the Zombies game mode has been a fan favorite, with multiple iterations of the game mode throughout the years.
With every release of Zombies, we see some new elements, maps, and features, but the core of it remains the same. Kill Zombies, buy rooms to expand the map, survive, and optionally try to complete a very elaborate task on each map for some ending/reward.
Modern Warfare 3 decides to shake it up and create something entirely new for the series while retaining what makes Call of Duty Zombies so popular. As a long-time fan of the Zombie game mode, I was skeptical, but I think Modern Warfare 3 may have done something great.
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 Zombies Overview
Trailer
Check out this trailer for Zombies:
The Map
This year, Call of Duty Zombies features an open-world style gameplay on a Warzone-like map. Before playing the game, I feared this would be like the failed attempt to make open-ended missions in the Modern Warfare 3 campaign.
However, my fears were proven wrong, and this style comes through with shining colors. The map features 3 zones, each representing a different threat level of zombies. The threat level increases the further you get towards the center of the map.
Before entering a new zone, it is highly recommended to have 2 Pack-A-Punched weapons as normal weapons will feel like pea shooters as the threat level increases. In each zone, you can Pack-A-Punch a gun to a higher level, which will help you explore deeper into the center of the map.
For example, once you Pack-A-Punch a gun in Zone 1, you will be able to increase its level at a Pack-A-Punch machine in Zone 2. This tiered system of gameplay is a fresh new twist on the Zombie game mode and the map is quite large with lots to explore.
Additionally, the game mode features 24 real players who are all surviving at the same time as you as friendly characters. Like me, many are probably skeptical of this new style of Zombie gameplay, but I can assure you this twist on the game works out for the best.
The Classic Zombie Mechanics
While this year does provide a new twist on the Zombie game mode, it does retain many of the famous zombie mechanics that make the mode so beloved. Random drops such as max ammo, nuke, and double points are still featured along with a few new drops such as max armor.
The famous mystery box is also present in the game with the chance to pull random guns with a random number of attachments. The more attachments on the gun, the higher the level.
From the mystery box, you also have a chance to pull the legendary Ray Gun.
Buffs from sodas such as deadeye also make a return, but not in the traditional way with soda machines. Around the map, there are numerous challenges to complete that offer in-game currency and a random soda buff as a reward. These challenges can range from destroying certain objectives to hunting down a legendary boss zombie.
Several smaller details make a return such as guns on a wall in each area that are available for purchase and pack-a-punch.
The Verdict
One of the downsides to the new Zombie mode is you must have an internet connection to play; it can not be played offline. This can be a deal breaker which is understandable. However, if this is no issue, you should enjoy this new Zombie game mode and all it has to offer.
Without giving away any more surprises to discover in this game mode, I can safely say this mode will be a fun time for many. The change from the standard zombie formula was a bold move and one that seems to pay off. This can be enjoyed alone in a no-fill squad but is best enjoyed with friends.
Get MW3 on Amazon: Call of Duty Modern Warfare 3.
We will provide updates if/when new content becomes available. Until then have fun surviving in the new Modern Warfare 3 Zombies mode.
Check out our review of the Modern Warfare 3 Campaign.