How Big is MW2 on PS5? A Comprehensive Guide to Storage Space
The question of “How big is MW2 on PS5?” is one that plagues many gamers, and the answer isn’t always straightforward. The initial download size can be deceptive, as updates and additional content packs significantly increase the required storage space. So, let’s cut to the chase: Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II (MW2) can take up a considerable amount of space on your PlayStation 5. While the base game might initially appear around 35-36GB, this is just the tip of the iceberg. After the day one patch and subsequent updates, including multiplayer, campaign, and co-op packs, the game can balloon to around 150 GB or more.
This significant jump in size is primarily due to the game’s high-fidelity graphics, uncompressed textures, and a vast amount of content packed into the experience. While the exact size varies slightly based on whether you have installed all components, the general range you should expect is between 150-175 GB on your PS5 hard drive. This can be a concerning prospect for many gamers with the PS5’s internal SSD offering only 825GB of storage, with about 670GB available after formatting and system files are accounted for. Managing this space requires careful consideration of which content packs to install and how to manage the drive space effectively.
Understanding the Size of Modern Warfare 2
The file size of MW2 on PS5 is a complex issue, with various factors contributing to its large footprint. Let’s break down the key reasons:
Initial Base Game Size
The initial download for Modern Warfare 2 is relatively modest, sitting around 36.201GB (according to early reports). This initial size is significantly smaller than what the full game requires.
The Impact of the Day One Patch
A substantial day one patch, around 40.156 GB, dramatically increased the game size. This patch included critical bug fixes, optimizations, and additional content to prepare the game for its official launch. This jump brought the total initial size to around 151.4 GB.
Content Packs and Add-ons
The addition of various content packs, including Campaign packs, Multiplayer packs and Co-Op packs, is a significant contributor to the large size. These packs can add anywhere from a few to dozens of gigabytes to the overall storage requirement.
High-Fidelity Graphics and Uncompressed Textures
Modern Warfare 2 is known for its realistic graphics and immersive visuals. To achieve this level of detail, the game utilizes high-resolution textures which take up substantial storage. It’s commonly suggested that the uncompressed nature of these textures significantly contributes to the file size.
Game Assets and Cosmetics
A significant portion of the file size comes from game assets, such as map files, character models, weapon textures, and cosmetic items. The game also holds various assets from the in-game store which add to the storage burden.
Ongoing Updates and Content
As with most modern games, MW2 receives regular updates introducing new seasons and content, further adding to the game’s storage requirements. These updates are essential for keeping the game fresh, but also cause the file size to continue to increase.
Managing Storage Space for MW2 on PS5
Given the large size of MW2, managing storage space is crucial. Here are some tips:
- Install Only Necessary Packs: Consider which aspects of the game you will use most frequently. If you are only interested in the multiplayer mode, avoid installing unnecessary campaign or co-op packs.
- Utilize the PS5 Storage Manager: The PS5 has a built-in storage manager that allows you to see what’s taking up your space and gives you the option to uninstall parts of the game you no longer need.
- Upgrade your SSD: An external SSD can be used to expand your available storage space. Opting for a compatible NVMe SSD will allow for faster loading times and more storage for other large games.
- Regularly Clean Unused Content: Periodically, uninstall the parts of the game you no longer use. For instance, if you have finished the campaign, uninstall those packs to free up space.
- Cloud Storage: Utilizing cloud storage for game save data ensures you can delete content locally and redownload it later, if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the initial download size of MW2 on PS5?
The initial base download of MW2 is around 36.201 GB. However, this is before any updates or content packs are installed.
2. Why is MW2 so much larger than the initial download size?
The game’s size increases significantly due to the day one patch, additional content packs like campaign, multiplayer, and co-op modes, high-resolution textures, and a large number of game assets.
3. How big is the day one patch for MW2 on PS5?
The day one patch for MW2 was roughly 40.156 GB, which was added to the base game size.
4. What is the total size of MW2 on PS5 with all content packs installed?
With all content packs installed, Modern Warfare 2 on PS5 can take up between 150 and 175 GB.
5. How much available storage does the PS5 provide?
The PS5’s internal SSD provides 825 GB of storage, with approximately 670 GB available for games and other media after system files and formatting.
6. Can I install just specific parts of MW2 to save space?
Yes, you can manage your storage space by choosing which content packs you want to install, such as multiplayer only, or campaign only. This is helpful if you are only focused on one aspect of the game.
7. What causes MW2 to take up so much storage space?
The main reasons for MW2’s large file size include the game’s high-resolution textures, uncompressed game assets, multiple game modes, and a large number of cosmetics and map files.
8. Is there a significant difference in file size between MW2 on PS4 and PS5?
While the base file size is similar, around 35GB on both, content packs on PS4 are generally smaller than on PS5, so PS5 version still takes more space with all content installed.
9. Does Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 have a similar file size to MW2?
Yes, the latest Call of Duty games have a similar massive file size, often exceeding 200GB.
10. Can an external hard drive be used to store MW2 on PS5?
Yes, an external SSD can be used to store and play MW2 on PS5, helping to expand your storage space.
11. What is the largest game file size currently available?
Some of the largest games include ARK: Survival Evolved, which can reach over 250 GB, and others like Medal of Honor: Above and Beyond and Star Wars Jedi: Survivor that go over 150 GB.
12. Does having a digital copy of MW2 affect the file size compared to a physical copy?
No. The digital download size is the same as the installed file size for the disc version, as the game still requires a large download to be playable regardless of the source.
13. Is 16 GB of RAM enough for MW2 on PC?
Yes, 16 GB of RAM is generally recommended for Modern Warfare 2 on PC to ensure a smooth gaming experience.
14. How do updates affect the file size of MW2 on PS5?
Updates usually add new content and can increase the overall storage requirements. These should not be ignored for optimal performance and enjoyment of the game.
15. How big was the MW2 & Warzone 2 Season 2 update on PS5?
The MW2 & Warzone 2 Season 2 update was approximately 22.1 GB on PS5.
By understanding the various factors influencing the size of MW2 on PS5, and utilizing the management tips, gamers can ensure they have enough space to enjoy this graphically intensive and feature-rich game.