Initially, Modern Warfare 3 was planned as an expansion to last year's Modern Warfare 2. However, during development, it evolved into a full-fledged numbered part, which many fans of the series are not particularly happy with (we'll mention more about this later).

The game has received considerable criticism, and not without reason, as it has many flaws. Nonetheless, we cannot overlook the shooter's merits. Let's highlight all the important aspects that are worth knowing in advance before you decide to purchase and play CoD: Modern Warfare 3.

Campaign lasts approximately 4 hours

CoD MW 3Image: eareplaystation.fr

A year has passed since the finale of Modern Warfare 2. This time, the operatives of Task Force 141 must eliminate the escaped ultranationalist Vladimir Makarov. The villain plans to orchestrate terrorist attacks worldwide and involves the private military corporation "Koni" in his schemes. To stop Makarov, Captain John Price, Lieutenant Simon "Ghost" Riley, Sergeants John "Soap" MacTavish, and Kyle "Gaz" Garrick embark on a series of dangerous missions.

While this sounds interesting, the campaign lasts only about 4 hours. Some players note that it can even be completed in 3 hours. Most missions consist of open combat tasks, with few spectacular cinematic episodes. The missions in the airplane, the Siberian forest, and the Verdansk stadium stand out. Furthermore, the levels lack the interesting decorations or gameplay variety for which the series is known. 

Gameplay

CoD MW 3Image credit: x.com

Now, let's move on to the gameplay itself. In terms of gameplay, Modern Warfare 3 does not differ significantly from Modern Warfare 2. Notable changes include faster running animations and the ability of characters to shoot while sliding.

The game's structure has changed: MW3 introduced open combat tasks - levels in large locations. The objective is to complete several goals and evacuate. Players can independently choose their weapons and approach to completing the tasks.

On the levels, there are vehicles, boxes scattered with ammunition, and valuable weapons. In open combat tasks, you can find equipment from multiplayer.

Mature content abounds

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The shooter provides an upfront warning about its mature content. In several missions, players will experience the aftermath of Vladimir Makarov's attacks, and in one mission, witness an airplane hijacking and explosion.

Zombie Mode

CoD MW 3Image: Reddit

A three-player squad lands in an area to search for resources, complete contracts, and fend off zombies. If a player successfully evacuates, they can use the found weapons and resources in the next operation.

In MWZ, there is a storyline and cutscenes. Players control soldiers of the private army "Terminus Eventus", led by arms magnate Viktor Zakhaev. The soldiers are on a quest related to the emergence of zombies.

Besides regular zombies, there are other creatures. For example, players face a three-headed monster called Megaotrodye, a stealthy creature named Mim, and an armored zombie, the Crusher.

Stringent checkpoint system

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The game features a merciless checkpoint system, particularly noticeable in open combat tasks.

Death in the game either sends you back to the beginning of the level or to the last major objective completed. This means players will have to traverse the map multiple times if they die. This will be a point of frustration for those accustomed to checkpoints being only moments before a firefight, as in most older Call of Duty games.

Multiplayer is not a mere copy of MW2

CoD MW 3Image: Twitch

Despite being Modern Warfare 3, the multiplayer includes all maps from 2009's Modern Warfare 2. But we will list some differences.

A new game mode called Cutthroat, featuring three competing teams, has been introduced, and some modes from later games, like Ground War, have also returned. The progression system is different from the 2009 game.

A tactical stance has been added, where the player holds their weapon at an angle, suitable for close combat.

CoD MW 3Image: kotaku.com

Slide animations can now be interrupted. MW3 introduces a mechanic long requested by hardcore players. The ability to cancel slide animation allows for quick movement across the map without depleting stamina. Moreover, players can now shoot while sliding.

Different pieces of equipment, like boots, gloves, and vests, now control bonuses. For example, one type of vest allows carrying more ammunition and increases reloading speed. However, wearing it means you can't wear special boots. All perks are activated at the start of the match and remain active until the end.

Player health has been increased from 100 to 150. Along with this, the bonus damage for headshots has been slightly reduced.

Rushed and poorly planned shooter development

CoD MW 3Image: callofduty.com

According to a report by Jason Schreier from Bloomberg, Modern Warfare 3 was developed in just 16 months. This is the shortest development time for a new Call of Duty in many years. Additionally, many developers reportedly thought they were working on an expansion for Modern Warfare 2 before it was transformed into the next full part of the franchise.

Is it worth buying

CoD MW 3Image: xbox.com

At the beginning of the article, we mentioned that not all fans are happy with the release of the new shooter. This is due not only to all the flaws present in CoD: MW3, but also to the game's price tag of $70.

On the review aggregator OpenCritic, Modern Warfare 3 has an average score of just 59 points, with only 4% of reviewers recommending it. The narrative campaign is called the worst in the series, criticized for its short duration, open combat tasks, lack of spectacular missions, and innovations.

Players have taken an even dimmer view of the new Call of Duty: the user score on Metacritic is only 1.6 out of 10. Fans are most displeased with the lack of innovations, the disappointing narrative campaign, and the inflated price.

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