Is MW2 Vault Edition the Actual Game? Unpacking the Premium Offering
The question of whether the Modern Warfare 2 (MW2) Vault Edition is the “actual” game is a common one, often causing confusion among potential buyers. The short and definitive answer is: Yes, the Vault Edition is the actual game. It’s not a separate standalone title, but rather a premium version of the base game, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II. Think of it as a deluxe package that includes the complete game along with a host of extra digital goodies.
The confusion arises because the Vault Edition commands a higher price tag and offers a significant amount of bonus content. Unlike a mere expansion or downloadable content (DLC), it is a complete copy of MW2 but with enhanced features and exclusive items. So, when you purchase the Vault Edition, you are indeed buying the core game experience, just with an amplified collection of extras.
What Makes the Vault Edition Different?
The Standard Edition of Modern Warfare II gives you access to the core gameplay, including the campaign, multiplayer modes, and access to Warzone. The Vault Edition, on the other hand, provides all that, and adds substantial digital extras. This is where the value proposition comes into play and makes it more than just the base game. Here’s a breakdown of the key differences and what you get with the Vault Edition:
Additional Content in the Vault Edition
- The Full Game: As stated, the Vault Edition includes the full Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II game.
- Cross-Gen Bundle: The Vault Edition grants you access to the game on both Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S, ensuring compatibility across console generations.
- Red Team 141 Operator Pack: This exclusive operator pack adds unique cosmetic items, changing your in-game appearance.
- FJX Cinder Weapon Vault: A particularly attractive addition, this provides a weapon vault with customization options, letting players immediately tweak a weapon’s look and feel.
- 10 Hours Double XP Tokens: Kickstart your progression with ten hours of doubled experience gain.
- 10 Hours Double Weapon XP Tokens: Level up your weapons faster with ten hours of doubled weapon experience gain.
- Battle Pass and Tier Skips: At launch, Vault Edition owners get one Season of the Battle Pass and 50 Tier Skips (or their equivalent). This gives a massive head-start to unlocking all the goodies the battle pass has to offer.
Essentially, the Vault Edition is designed for players who want the complete MW2 experience, coupled with exclusive cosmetic items, progression boosts, and a clear advantage in the Battle Pass system. It provides a premium experience for those who are eager to immerse themselves fully into the game right from the beginning.
Is the Vault Edition Worth It?
This is subjective and depends on your gaming preferences and budget. The Vault Edition certainly isn’t the game for the bargain hunter, but there is plenty of value to be found in it for some players. Here are a few considerations:
- If you enjoy cosmetic customization: The exclusive operator skins and weapon blueprints within the Vault Edition could be very appealing.
- If you value progression boosts: The XP and Weapon XP tokens can accelerate your journey through the game’s levels and unlocks.
- If you want a head start on the Battle Pass: The included battle pass and tier skips will immediately put you ahead of the curve.
- If you want early access: For certain preorders of the Vault Edition, there is sometimes Campaign Early Access.
However, If you aren’t particularly concerned about cosmetics or early unlocks, the Standard Edition provides the exact same core gameplay experience at a more affordable price. For the player who’s simply in it for the gameplay itself, the Standard Edition could be a smarter way to purchase the game.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About MW2 Vault Edition
1. Does the MW2 Vault Edition include the base game?
Yes, the Vault Edition includes the full Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II game, along with all its modes and features.
2. What is the difference between the Standard Edition and the Vault Edition?
The Standard Edition includes the base game, while the Vault Edition includes the base game plus additional content like operator packs, weapon vaults, XP tokens, and the Battle Pass with tier skips.
3. Is the MW2 Vault Edition an upgrade?
It can be considered an upgrade from the Standard Edition, but it is also a complete purchase of the game, rather than simply an upgrade. If you already own the standard version, the game will often try to get you to purchase the upgrade at full price.
4. What are the benefits of buying the MW2 Vault Edition?
The benefits include cosmetic items (skins and weapon blueprints), XP and weapon XP boosts, a head start on the battle pass, and access to the game on both Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S.
5. Can I upgrade to the Vault Edition if I already own the Standard Edition?
Yes, you can typically upgrade to the Vault Edition through your platform’s store (e.g., Microsoft Store, PlayStation Store) by purchasing the Vault Edition Upgrade.
6. How much does the MW2 Vault Edition cost?
The MW2 Vault Edition typically costs $99.99 (or your regional equivalent) and can be purchased through most major platforms.
7. Is the FJX Cinder Weapon Vault available in the Standard Edition?
No, the FJX Cinder Weapon Vault is exclusive to the Vault Edition.
8. Can I use the Red Team 141 Operator Pack in all modes?
Yes, you can use the Red Team 141 Operator Pack in all game modes, including campaign, multiplayer, and Warzone.
9. Do XP and Weapon XP tokens carry over between Call of Duty games?
No, XP and Weapon XP tokens typically don’t carry over between different Call of Duty titles. They are specific to the game they are acquired in.
10. Does the Vault Edition guarantee a competitive advantage?
While the Vault Edition provides progression boosts through XP tokens and battle pass access, it doesn’t guarantee a competitive advantage based on skill.
11. Where can I buy the MW2 Vault Edition?
The Vault Edition can be purchased digitally through each platform’s digital storefront, like the PlayStation Store, Microsoft Store, Steam and Battle.net.
12. Can I share the Vault Edition content with other accounts?
Sharing of game content and DLC depends on the specific platform’s sharing policies, but in general, it is usually tied to the purchasing account on the primary console.
13. What if I already own both MW2 and Warzone 2? Why do I have to buy MW2 again?
It is a known bug that happens to some players, causing them to be sent back to MW2 menus when trying to access Warzone 2 matches.
14. If I own the MW2 Vault edition, does that carry over to MW3?
No. While you can get a Zombie Ghost Operator skin for pre-ordering MW3, content from the MW2 Vault Edition will not automatically carry over into Modern Warfare III.
15. Will the Vault Edition be available after MW3 release?
Yes, the Vault Edition is generally available for purchase even after the release of newer titles, unless the publisher decides to remove it from stores.
In conclusion, the MW2 Vault Edition is indeed the full game, enhanced with significant extra content. It’s a premium offering for those who want the maximum experience with added bonuses. Whether it’s worth the extra cost depends on your individual preferences and budget.