How to Install Zombies Only in Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War

The question of whether you can install only the Zombies mode in Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War is a common one, especially for players looking to save storage space or focus solely on their favorite game mode. The straightforward answer is: you can install just the core Zombies content, but this has some important limitations. While you can technically select only the Zombies portion for download, you’ll find that certain Zombies experiences, specifically Outbreak and Onslaught, require parts of the Multiplayer component to function correctly. This means that while you can access the core round-based Zombies maps like “Die Maschine,” you won’t be able to enjoy every aspect of the mode without installing additional files.

So, while a completely isolated Zombies-only install is not entirely feasible, here’s how to minimize the install size and get into the action:

1. Launch the Battle.net App: Open the Battle.net desktop application on your PC. Ensure you are logged into the correct Battle.net account.

2. Select Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War: Locate and select Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War from your list of games on the left.

3. Access the Options Menu: Next to the Play button, you’ll see a blue cogwheel icon – this is the Options menu. Click it.

4. Choose “Modify Install”: From the drop-down list, select “Modify Install”.

5. Modify Game Content: A pop-up window will appear. In the “Game Content” section, you’ll find a button labeled “Modify Install”. Click on this button.

6. Select the Content: In the following window, you’ll see a list of all available game content for Black Ops Cold War, such as Campaign, Multiplayer, and Zombies. Uncheck all options except for the Zombies content. Keep in mind that if you want to play Outbreak or Onslaught mode you must select Multiplayer here too.

7. Confirm Your Selection: Once you’ve made your selections, click the “Confirm” button. This will initiate the download and installation of your chosen content, which should ideally be the Zombies components alone (or plus multiplayer to be able to play all Zombies content).

8. Wait for Installation: The Battle.net app will now download and install only the selected parts of Black Ops Cold War. You can monitor progress on the app.

After the installation is complete, you can launch the game. You can then dive into round-based Zombies maps by going to the Zombies mode and selecting Private match mode to play solo or with friends and then going to the standard Zombies options such as “Die Maschine”. Remember that if you are playing in public or select Outbreak or Onslaught, the game might still prompt to install Multiplayer, if you haven’t already.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why is Cold War Zombies Partially Installed?

The “Cold War Zombies partially installed” error usually arises because you don’t have all the necessary components installed. The most common reason is that some Zombies modes, like Outbreak and Onslaught, are built using Multiplayer assets. If you’ve only installed the core Zombies content, you won’t be able to access these modes. To rectify this, use the Modify Install option in Battle.net to include the missing components.

Can I Download Just Multiplayer for Cold War?

Yes, you can download just the Multiplayer component of Black Ops Cold War by following the steps outlined above. In the “Modify Install” window, select the Multiplayer checkbox, and uncheck everything else. The Battle.net app will only download and install the components you selected.

Why Can’t I Play Zombies Solo in Cold War?

If you’re having issues playing Zombies solo, it’s likely because you’re in a “Public” lobby, not a “Private” one. To play solo, navigate to the Zombies mode selection screen and change the match type from “Public” to “Private”. From there, select your desired map or mode and start your solo match.

Do I Have to Buy Zombies for Cold War?

No, you do not have to buy Zombies separately for Black Ops Cold War. The Zombies mode is included with the base game and contains all the base map options and content that were released through the game’s lifecycle.

Are All Zombies Maps Included in the Base Game?

Yes, all the base Zombies maps that were released, are included with the purchase of Black Ops Cold War. No additional purchases are required to access all the core map content.

How Do I Modify my Cold War Installation?

Modifying your Black Ops Cold War installation is straightforward. As detailed above, you need to launch the Battle.net launcher, select the game, click on the Options menu (blue cogwheel), choose “Modify Install”, and then select the components you wish to add or remove.

Can I Play Zombies on Cold War with Friends Cross-Platform?

Yes, Black Ops Cold War offers cross-play for Zombies. This means you can form squads with friends regardless of whether they are on PC, PlayStation, or Xbox. This marked the first time this option was available in the franchise’s history.

Can I Advance the Battle Pass Playing Zombies?

Yes, time spent playing Zombies will contribute to your Battle Pass progression. This means you can unlock rewards for the current battle pass by simply playing the mode.

Can I Buy Just the Zombies Mode?

No, you cannot purchase the Zombies mode as a standalone product. It is only available with the full game purchase of Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War.

Can I Play Black Ops Zombies without Buying the Base Game?

No. While the Zombies Chronicles expansion is built on Call of Duty: Black Ops III, you cannot play it without owning the base Black Ops III game.

Is Zombies Easier or Harder Solo?

Many players find Zombies to be easier solo, especially for reaching higher rounds. This is primarily because a solo player can more easily execute an effective kiting strategy and manage the zombie horde than in a chaotic multiplayer game with others.

How Do I Start a Private Zombie Match?

To start a private Zombies match, navigate to the Zombies game mode and select “Private” before selecting your map. You can then start the game by yourself or with invited friends without needing to go through a public lobby.

Can I Play Cold War Zombies on PS4?

Yes, you can play Black Ops Cold War Zombies on PS4. It is a mode included in the game on all of its supported platforms, including Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PS4, PS5 and PC.

Why Does Call of Duty Say “Please Install Multiplayer”?

This message appears when you are trying to access a game mode that relies on Multiplayer assets, without having installed them. To resolve this, you will need to use Battle.net’s modify install option to select and install the necessary Multiplayer content.

Can I Play Zombies Offline?

Yes, you can play Zombies offline in Black Ops Cold War. When you navigate to the game modes, there will be an option to toggle between online and offline play. This lets you play standard Zombies maps without any internet connection, provided that you have already downloaded the correct content.