Summary
By now, everyone who follows the franchise is likely aware thatCall of Duty: Modern Warfare 3is doing things a bit backwards. Building off the return of the classic mini-map and Ninja perk, which leaked before the game’s official reveal,MW3’s focus on nostalgiawill carry over to the multiplayer map lineup. Instead of new maps dominating the launch lineup and classic maps appearing in the post-launch seasons, seasonal content will bring 12 new maps while the launch roster is entirely composed of remakes. Fans know they will be seeing all ofModern Warfare 2’s launch maps remade, and though there is some concern, there probably does not need to be.
As part of the golden age ofCall of Duty, it is hardly a surprise that the map lineup from 2009’sModern Warfare 2is adored by many. Second to only the originalBlack Ops, this map roster packed with classics like Terminal and Highrise alongside forgotten gems like Skidrow. Naturally, when dealing with such a beloved piece of franchise history, fans are concerned thatCall of Duty: Modern Warfare 3will miss the mark with its remasters. Intriguingly, though, there is a chance that fans’ concerns are unfounded, as the maps might just play better than ever.
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Why Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3’s Map Remakes May Be a Step Up
Obviously, thanks to the improved visual fidelity of modernCall of Dutygames, theMW2map remakeswill undoubtedly look better than their original versions. More detailed surfaces, cleaner colors, better lighting, and complex character models will be found throughout the locations, guaranteeing a level of visual splendor that simply is not seen in the 2009 release. However, looks are not everything, and fans are worried that the maps will not feel like they did insideCall of Duty: Modern Warfare 2.
These fears are understandable, as there can be hugely different feels between certainCall of Dutygames. After all, the rebootedModern Warfaresubseries is nothing like the original trilogy when it comes to multiplayer, as it offers a more tactical gameplay style that has been divisive with the community since it is so camper-friendly. While leaks have suggested thatModern Warfare 3will resemble an old school entry in the series in certain ways, it will still probably play more like the reboots than the originalModern Warfaregames. This is what fans are afraid of, but in reality, it could be a good thing.
There is no denying thatCall of Duty: Modern Warfare 2was incredible back in 2009, and if players can find some hacker-free lobbies, they will likely enjoy themselves if they play a quick match or two today. However, if it released today, a majority of newCall of Dutyplayers would dislike the originalModern Warfare 2due to its absurd lack of balance. With competitive modes inCall of Dutyand other games being hugely popular, a game where certain weapons and gear pieces are overpowered is sure to get bashed online. And inthe originalModern Warfare 2, nearly everything was broken.
Quickscoping was at its peak inModern Warfare 2thanks to the Intervention sniper rifle, meaning that players could one shot kill with Sniper Rifles without even aiming properly. Weapons like the ACR and UMP-45 had no recoil whatsoever, while the Akimbo G18s and Rangers won every close range fight instantly. Strong killstreaks like the AC130 counting toward nukes meant what is supposed to be a rare match-ending streak was seen constantly. Numerous perks were hilariously overpowered, too, such as Commando Pro and One Man Army.
Players may be getting concerned oversmall additions to classicModern Warfare 2maps like doors, butModern Warfare 3is automatically going to strip away things that made the maps frustrating in their first appearance. Players will likely not be hunkering down in Afghan’s bunker with infinite Claymores and noob tube shots, nor will they be lunging across Favela’s rooftops for cheap melee kills with Commando Pro. Final Stand will surely not be a thing, and the Akimbo Model 1887s will not be killing from any range despite being shotguns.
For some, the originalModern Warfare 2was so fun because everything was broken, ensuring that matches were as casual as possible and did not focus on fairness whatsoever. In 2023, though, players often seek out balanced experiences. WhileCall of Duty’s SBMMmay be a step too far, virtually everyone complained about weapons like the 725 inModern Warfare2019. 2009’sMW2was full of weapons like that, and by extension, so were its maps.Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3will be the first time many players get to experience many of those locations without cross-map noob tubes, broken weapons, and cheesy perks. Because of this, as well as smoother player movement and animations, the remade maps could actually feel better than ever.
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3launches on November 10 for PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X.
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