Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 Zombies Review

This year's Zombies mode in Call of Duty Modern Warfare 3 has undergone what could be termed a Warzone makeover, blending its traditional PvE elements into a larger, more expansive map. Despite the popularity of Warzone's extraction shooter mode, DMZ, the fusion with zombies has somewhat diluted the experience of both modes, making it feel more like a DMZ reskin than a fresh take on zombies.

Call of Duty Modern Warfare 3

Operation Deadbolt: Unveiling the New Zombies Landscape

Operation Deadbolt, the Modern Warfare 3 Zombies mode, unfolds on a modified version of the Erzix fan Warzone map. Departing from the typical wave-based battles on smaller maps, the gameplay mirrors DMZ, where you and two squadmates explore the map, complete contracts for upgrades and items, and call a helicopter for extraction before succumbing to overwhelming forces or the 45-minute timer.

Early Challenges and Missing PvP Element

In the early stages, the zombie mode lacks the characteristic intensity of traditional zombie gameplay. The absence of player vs. player interactions in Operation Deadbolt diminishes the element of danger, and without the PvP aspect, lower-difficulty areas become monotonous.

Convergence of Gameplay Dynamics

As you progress, the gameplay dynamics begin to align better. Higher difficulty areas intensify battles, emphasizing the importance of traditional zombie elements like perk colas and pack-a-punch machines. The three difficulty zones vary significantly, with each presenting unique challenges and requiring strategic preparation.

Extraction Mechanics and Cooperative Thrills

The extraction mechanics from DMZ inject a sense of rising dread as you defend against hordes of zombies while securing your exfiltration helicopter. The inclusion of other players in the match adds a dynamic layer to the co-op experience, bringing new dimensions to the gameplay.

Uneven Pacing and Technical Hurdles

However, despite the synergy between DMZ and zombie elements, Operation Deadbolt's pacing remains uneven. A considerable amount of time is spent on powering up, making the more entertaining areas feel like a distant goal. The story suffers from this slow pace, delivered through mundane MMO-like mini-objectives, hindering progress. Moreover, Operation Deadbolt is plagued by bugs, including crashes and connectivity issues, disrupting an otherwise enjoyable experience.

Conclusion: Balancing Merits and Flaws

The attempt to revitalize Modern Warfare 3's Zombies mode by merging it with DMZ machinery has moments of success, but the excessive grind for gear, tedious story objectives, and technical issues detract from the overall enjoyment. While Operation Deadbolt offers thrilling moments of intense battles against formidable enemies, the substantial time and effort required to reach them may discourage some players. Despite its flaws, the game has its merits, but potential players should be aware of the challenges and limitations. For more on Call of Duty Modern Warfare 3, including reviews of the campaign and multiplayer modes, stay tuned to IGN.