Can I Download Modern Warfare Campaign Only? Your Comprehensive Guide

Yes, you can download the Modern Warfare (2019) and Modern Warfare II (2022) campaigns separately. The game offers modular installation, allowing you to choose which components to install, including the Campaign, Multiplayer, Special Ops, and Warzone. This helps manage storage space, especially since Call of Duty titles are notorious for their large file sizes. Let’s dive into the specifics and address some frequently asked questions.

Understanding Modular Installation

Modern Call of Duty titles, particularly those in the Modern Warfare series, have adopted a modular installation approach. This means you aren’t forced to download the entire game if you only want to play a specific mode. Here’s how it typically works:

• Base Game Installation: You’ll need to download the base game client, which includes core files necessary for running the game.

• Content Packs: After installing the base game, you’ll be prompted to download content packs for the modes you want to play. These packs include:

  • Campaign: This is the single-player story mode.
  • Multiplayer: This allows you to play online matches with other players.
  • Special Ops/Co-op: A cooperative mode featuring missions that often expand on the campaign’s narrative.
  • Warzone: The free-to-play battle royale mode.

• Selective Uninstallation: You can also uninstall content packs you no longer need to free up disk space.

This feature is especially useful for players who are primarily interested in the single-player experience and don’t want to waste storage on modes they won’t play.

How to Download Only the Campaign

The process for downloading only the campaign differs slightly depending on your platform:

Battle.net (PC)

1. Launch the Battle.net app.
2. Log in with your Battle.net account.
3. Select Call of Duty: Modern Warfare or Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II from your game library.
4. Click the “Options” dropdown menu (usually represented by a gear icon).
5. Select “Modify Install”.
6. A window will appear allowing you to check or uncheck the content packs you want to install. Make sure only the “Campaign” pack is selected.
7. Click “Start Install”.

PlayStation

1. From the PlayStation home screen, navigate to the game’s tile.
2. Press the “Options” button on your controller.
3. Select “Manage Game and Add-ons”.
4. You’ll see a list of available content packs. Select the “Campaign” pack to download and install it. Deselect the other packs if you do not want to download them.

Xbox

1. Go to “My Games & Apps”.
2. Select Call of Duty: Modern Warfare or Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II.
3. Press the “Menu” button on your controller.
4. Select “Manage Game & Add-ons”.
5. Go to “Installed” or “Ready to Install”.
6. Choose the “Campaign” pack and install it. Make sure that the other packs are not selected for installation.

Important Considerations

• Warzone as a Base Requirement: In some cases, especially with the original Modern Warfare (2019), the Warzone component might be required as part of the base installation, even if you don’t intend to play it. This is because some shared assets are necessary for the game to function correctly.

• Storage Space: Even with selective installation, the campaign can still take up a significant amount of storage space, often around 50-70GB. Ensure you have enough free space on your hard drive or SSD.

• Updates: Keep in mind that the game will still require updates, even if you’re only playing the campaign. These updates often include bug fixes and improvements that affect all game modes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions related to downloading and playing the Modern Warfare campaigns:

1. Do I have to install all of Modern Warfare to play the campaign?

No, you do not have to install the entire game. You can choose to download only the campaign pack, along with any necessary base files or the Warzone component (if required).

2. Can I buy the Call of Duty campaign separately?

No, you cannot buy the Call of Duty campaign as a standalone product. You must purchase the full game, which then allows you to selectively download the campaign.

3. Can I play the Modern Warfare campaign without an internet connection?

Initially, you need an internet connection to download and install the game, including the campaign. Furthermore, an Activision account is required to log in and play.

4. Do I need an Activision account to play the Modern Warfare campaign?

Yes, to support crossplay and cross-progression, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II requires all players to log in to an Activision account, even when playing the campaign.

5. Can I play the Modern Warfare campaign without updates?

The game must be fully installed to play the campaign. While you can technically skip future updates once the campaign is installed, it’s generally recommended to keep the game updated for bug fixes and performance improvements.

6. How long is the Modern Warfare campaign?

The Modern Warfare (2019) campaign typically takes around 6 hours to complete. Playtime can vary based on difficulty level and play style.

7. Do I need PlayStation Plus or Xbox Live Gold to play the Modern Warfare campaign?

No, PlayStation Plus or Xbox Live Gold is not required to play the campaign. These subscriptions are only needed for online multiplayer modes.

8. How much of Modern Warfare has to be downloaded to play?

The minimum download size depends on which components you choose to install. However, even with just the campaign, expect a download size of at least 50-70GB.

9. How do I uninstall content packs I no longer need?

The process for uninstalling content packs is similar to installing them. Go to the “Manage Game and Add-ons” section on your platform and deselect the packs you want to uninstall.

10. Do I need to play Modern Warfare 1 before 2?

The Modern Warfare II (2022) campaign is a sequel to Modern Warfare (2019). While it’s not essential to play the first game, it will provide context for the characters and storyline. The original Modern Warfare trilogy might be also important if you want to find out more about the characters. 2007’s Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare introduces the team that carries through the entire series.

11. Is the Modern Warfare campaign a remake?

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare (2019) is a soft reboot of the original Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare trilogy. It shares some elements but features a new storyline, characters, and gameplay mechanics.

12. Can I play Modern Warfare 2 campaign without a Day One update?

No, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II requires a Day One update to play the game, including the campaign.

13. Do I need to play Modern Warfare to play Warzone?

No, you do not need to own Modern Warfare to play Warzone. Warzone is a free-to-play standalone title.

14. What are Data Packs and why are they important?

Data Packs contain the necessary game assets for specific modes. For Modern Warfare (2019), certain Data Packs are essential for running the Multiplayer mode, even if you’re not interested in Warzone.

15. How does the Modern Warfare campaign connect to other Call of Duty games?

The Modern Warfare series has its own narrative arc that is distinct from other Call of Duty sub-series like Black Ops. However, there are some references and connections between the different titles. The original Modern Warfare games, as well as World at War, and Black Ops 1,2,3 and 4 are all connected.

Final Thoughts

Downloading only the Modern Warfare campaign is a viable option for players who want to experience the single-player story without consuming excessive storage space. By understanding the modular installation process and addressing common questions, you can optimize your Call of Duty experience to suit your preferences. The Games Learning Society understands the importance of providing clear and concise information to enhance the gaming experience and foster a deeper understanding of game mechanics. Visit GamesLearningSociety.org to discover more about how games can educate and engage.