Can You Just Buy Black Ops Zombies? A Comprehensive Guide
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The burning question for many Call of Duty fans, particularly those enamored with the undead hordes, is: Can you buy Black Ops Zombies as a standalone experience? The short answer is no, you cannot purchase the Zombies mode separate from the core game. This means that to dive into the thrilling world of Black Ops Zombies, you need to purchase the full Call of Duty game that contains it, like Black Ops 3, which is often regarded as the best of the series for Zombies enthusiasts. However, the details can be nuanced, and there are various options and add-ons that provide different levels of content. Let’s delve into this topic to clarify exactly how you can access and enjoy Black Ops Zombies.
Understanding the Black Ops Zombies Landscape
The Call of Duty: Black Ops series is renowned for its gripping and often intricate Zombies modes. Over the years, Treyarch has consistently delivered compelling narratives, challenging maps, and memorable characters, making Zombies a significant draw for many players. However, each iteration of Zombies is intertwined with the full Call of Duty package.
The core issue is that Zombies, while sometimes a very large and robust mode, has never been considered or sold as a standalone game. Instead, it is integrated with the main title, sharing game engines and assets. This structure means you need to purchase the full Call of Duty game to access its Zombies experience, whether it’s Black Ops, Black Ops 2, Black Ops 3, Black Ops 4, or Cold War.
Why You Need the Full Game
The primary reason you need the full game is that Zombies is designed as a mode within a larger game structure. It relies on the game engine, mechanics, and assets of the core title. Selling it separately would require significant restructuring of the game and potentially introduce compatibility issues. Think of it like this: you can’t just buy the engine of a car without the rest of the vehicle. It’s similar with Call of Duty – Zombies requires the “car” in order to run.
Navigating Black Ops 3 and Zombies Chronicles
Call of Duty: Black Ops III (BO3) is particularly pertinent here because it’s widely considered the pinnacle of the Black Ops Zombies experience. Not only does it feature its own great selection of maps, it also has the Zombies Chronicles expansion. This expansion is a game-changer, offering eight remastered classic Zombies maps from World at War, Black Ops, and Black Ops II, all playable in HD.
What is Black Ops III Zombies Chronicles?
Zombies Chronicles is not a standalone game either. It is an expansion for Black Ops III, and you must own BO3 in order to play it. It doesn’t matter if you want single-player campaign or multiplayer; to play Zombies Chronicles you have to buy the full base game first. Purchasing Black Ops III Zombies Chronicles Deluxe gets you the base game, Season Pass, Zombies Chronicles, and other digital content, providing the most complete experience. So, if you’re aiming to jump into a variety of zombie maps, this is the best option.
Black Ops Zombies: Your Options
Here’s a breakdown of your options for getting your fix of Black Ops Zombies:
- Buy the Full Game: To access the Zombies mode, you must purchase the full version of the corresponding Call of Duty Black Ops title (e.g., Black Ops 3). This is the core requirement, and without it, you can’t play any of the zombie maps.
- Consider Deluxe Editions: When available, consider purchasing deluxe editions or versions of the game that include DLC packs and expansions, such as Black Ops III Zombies Chronicles Deluxe. These editions offer the most content and are often the most cost-effective way to get all the maps.
- Look for Sales and Bundles: Keep an eye out for sales and bundles on platforms like PlayStation Store, Xbox Store, or Steam, where you might be able to purchase the games and DLC at reduced prices. This can be a great way to get your desired experience without paying full price.
- Understand DLC and Map Packs: When purchasing maps, be aware that they are usually packaged as DLC content packs or as part of larger expansion bundles. They are not typically available for purchase individually (although there are exceptions like the individual map purchases on certain platforms mentioned in the provided text).
The Benefits of Choosing Black Ops 3
Black Ops 3 is often hailed as the pinnacle of the Black Ops Zombies experience, with several key advantages:
- Large Map Selection: With the inclusion of the base maps and those in Zombies Chronicles, you have a vast selection of content that offers hours of zombie-slaying fun.
- Improved Mechanics and Graphics: Black Ops 3 features refined mechanics, better graphics, and improved movement, making it a more polished experience than previous entries.
- Custom Map Support: The game also supports custom maps, meaning that if you’re playing on PC, the content is virtually endless.
- High Player Count: The continued popularity of BO3 Zombies ensures that you’ll usually have no trouble finding players online to join you on your undead adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about buying Black Ops Zombies:
1. Can I buy Black Ops 3 Zombies separately from the main game?
No, you cannot buy Black Ops 3 Zombies as a standalone product. You must own the base game, Call of Duty: Black Ops III, to play the Zombies mode.
2. Is there a way to just download the Zombies mode of Black Ops 3?
No, you cannot download just the Zombies mode. You need the entire game installed, although on some platforms, you might be able to deselect certain parts (like single-player or multiplayer) in order to save space, while still retaining the zombie mode.
3. What is the difference between Zombies Chronicles and a deluxe version of Black Ops 3?
Zombies Chronicles is an expansion that contains eight remastered maps. A Deluxe Edition of Black Ops 3 usually bundles the base game, the Zombies Chronicles expansion, other DLC, and bonus content, providing the most comprehensive package.
4. Which Black Ops game has the best Zombies experience?
Most fans consider Call of Duty: Black Ops III to have the best Zombies experience, largely thanks to the combination of the base game and the Zombies Chronicles expansion.
5. How many zombie maps are included in Black Ops 3 with all expansions?
With the base game, DLC packs, and Zombies Chronicles, Black Ops 3 includes over 14 maps, making it a treasure trove for Zombies fans.
6. Can I play Black Ops Zombies on PC, PS4, or Xbox One?
Yes, you can play Black Ops Zombies on PC, PS4, and Xbox One. These are the main platforms where the games are available.
7. Does Black Ops Cold War have Zombies?
Yes, Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War includes a cooperative Zombies mode, which introduces some new and unique features.
8. What is the “The Giant” bonus map included with Black Ops 3 Deluxe?
“The Giant” is a bonus Zombies map included in various editions of Black Ops 3. It’s a reimagining of the classic Der Riese map, which many veteran players enjoy.
9. What are the other classic maps included in Zombies Chronicles?
Zombies Chronicles includes remastered maps from World at War, Black Ops, and Black Ops II, including maps like Nacht Der Untoten, Verruckt, Shi No Numa, Kino Der Toten, Ascension, Shangri-La, Moon, and Origins.
10. Is Zombies Chronicles worth buying in 2023?
Yes, Zombies Chronicles is generally considered worth buying if you are a fan of the zombies mode. It offers a huge amount of content and an exciting zombies experience.
11. How can I unlock all the zombie maps in Black Ops 3?
To unlock the other maps, you usually need to purchase the corresponding DLC packs, expansions, or the Deluxe edition which has most, if not all the content in one package. There is a code that used to work in older versions of the game: complete all of the missions and tap l2, r2, l2, r2, l2. Then go on the computer and type 3ARC UNLOCK, however it is not known to work in current versions.
12. Are there any standalone zombies campaigns in the Black Ops series?
No, there are no standalone Zombies campaign games. They are always part of the main Call of Duty games.
13. What is the best way to access all zombie maps in the Black Ops series?
The best way is to purchase Black Ops 3 with the Zombies Chronicles expansion. This provides access to the most maps and a comprehensive Zombies experience.
14. Can I buy individual zombie maps for Black Ops 3?
While some platforms have offered the ability to purchase individual maps (rather than a full DLC pack), it’s not a common option. Check your platform’s store for any such offerings, as this can vary.
15. Can I download Black Ops 3 Zombies and uninstall other parts of the game?
You can download and install the full game but it may be possible to deselect the parts of the game you don’t want installed from the DLC menu depending on your platform. You would still need the core game files to run Zombies, however.
Conclusion
In summary, while you cannot buy Black Ops Zombies as a standalone game, the Black Ops series, particularly Black Ops 3 with Zombies Chronicles, offers an incredibly rich and rewarding Zombies experience. Be sure to explore the various purchasing options on your preferred platform. By purchasing either a standard or deluxe edition, or a bundle including additional maps, you’ll be able to dive into the world of Zombies and enjoy the many undead challenges that await.