Do You Have To Pay For Zombies on Black Ops 3? The Ultimate Guide
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Yes, you do have to pay for the Zombies mode on Call of Duty: Black Ops 3. While a base version of Zombies comes with the game, access to the full and richest Zombies experience, including all maps and features, requires purchasing additional content. This content comes in the form of downloadable content (DLC) packs or the Zombies Chronicles expansion. Understanding exactly what you get for your money, and what you need to buy to access your favorite maps, can be a little complicated. This guide breaks it down for you.
Understanding Black Ops 3 Zombies Content
Black Ops 3 Zombies is a sprawling and hugely popular game mode with a rich storyline and dedicated fanbase. This popularity has led to a lot of content being released, which can make understanding exactly what you need to buy tricky. Here’s a breakdown of the key things you need to know:
The Base Game: Shadows of Evil
The core version of Black Ops 3 comes with one Zombies map: Shadows of Evil. This map features a unique 1940s film noir setting, a star-studded cast of characters, and introduces several key gameplay mechanics that would become staples of future Zombies maps. If you only own the base game, Shadows of Evil is the only Zombies map you will have access to.
Downloadable Content (DLC) Packs: The Expansion Continues
The main way to access more Zombies content is through purchasing the DLC map packs. Black Ops 3 had four DLC packs released:
- Awakening: Includes the Zombies map Der Eisendrache.
- Eclipse: Includes the Zombies map Zetsubou No Shima.
- Descent: Includes the Zombies map Gorod Krovi.
- Salvation: Includes the Zombies map Revelations.
These DLC packs are sold separately, so you can pick and choose which maps you want. Buying all four DLC packs will give you access to a total of five Zombies maps (including Shadows of Evil).
Zombies Chronicles: A Blast from the Past
Zombies Chronicles is a separate expansion pack that remasters eight classic Zombies maps from previous Call of Duty games. This pack is aimed at fans of the older games and provides a nostalgic trip down memory lane. The maps included are:
- From World at War: Nacht der Untoten, Verruckt, Shi No Numa
- From Black Ops: Kino der Toten, Ascension, Shangri-La, Moon
- From Black Ops II: Origins
Zombies Chronicles needs to be purchased separately from the DLC packs. If you want to play these remastered classics, you will need to buy this expansion.
The Season Pass: The All-in-One Package
The Black Ops 3 Season Pass offered the most cost-effective way to obtain all DLC content at the time of its release. Purchasing the Season Pass granted access to all four DLC packs as they were released, including the Zombies maps: Der Eisendrache, Zetsubou No Shima, Gorod Krovi, and Revelations.
Important Note: The Season Pass does not include Zombies Chronicles. That needs to be purchased separately.
How Much Does It All Cost?
The cost of Black Ops 3 Zombies content varies depending on whether you buy the DLC packs individually, purchase the Season Pass (if available), or buy Zombies Chronicles. Prices also fluctuate based on platform and sales.
- Individual DLC Packs: Typically priced around $15 each.
- Zombies Chronicles: Typically priced around $30.
- Season Pass: Original pricing was around $50, but availability and pricing can vary greatly in the used market.
Keep an eye out for sales on digital storefronts like PlayStation Store, Xbox Marketplace, and Steam. Discounts are often available, especially during holiday periods.
Is It Worth Buying the Extra Zombies Content?
This depends entirely on your level of interest in the Black Ops 3 Zombies mode.
Consider buying the DLC packs or Season Pass if:
- You enjoyed Shadows of Evil and want more Zombies maps with new stories, characters, and gameplay mechanics.
- You are interested in completing the elaborate Easter Egg quests that unlock secret endings and lore.
- You enjoy playing Zombies with friends and want a variety of maps to choose from.
Consider buying Zombies Chronicles if:
- You are a long-time fan of the Call of Duty Zombies mode and want to relive classic maps from previous games.
- You missed out on playing the older Zombies maps and want to experience them in a remastered form.
- You want a different style of Zombies gameplay than the more complex maps introduced in Black Ops 3.
If you are unsure, start with a single DLC pack containing a map that looks interesting to you. This will allow you to experience the additional content without committing to a larger purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Black Ops 3 Zombies
Here are some frequently asked questions to help you navigate the world of Black Ops 3 Zombies content.
1. Does Black Ops 3 come with a Zombies map?
Yes, Black Ops 3 comes with one Zombies map called Shadows of Evil. This map is included with the base game.
2. How many Zombies maps are in Black Ops 3 with all DLC?
With all DLC packs and Zombies Chronicles, there are a total of 13 Zombies maps in Black Ops 3. This includes Shadows of Evil (base game), four maps from the DLC packs (Der Eisendrache, Zetsubou No Shima, Gorod Krovi, Revelations), and eight remastered maps from Zombies Chronicles (Nacht der Untoten, Verruckt, Shi No Numa, Kino der Toten, Ascension, Shangri-La, Moon, Origins).
3. Can I buy Zombies Chronicles separately?
Yes, Zombies Chronicles is a separate expansion pack that needs to be purchased independently of the DLC packs. It is not included in the Season Pass.
4. Does the Season Pass include Zombies Chronicles?
No, the Black Ops 3 Season Pass only includes the four DLC packs that were released for the game. It does not include Zombies Chronicles.
5. Which Zombies map is considered the best?
The “best” Zombies map is subjective and depends on individual preferences. However, maps like Origins, Der Eisendrache, and Kino der Toten are often cited as fan favorites due to their gameplay, story, and overall design.
6. Can I play Black Ops 3 Zombies offline?
Yes, you can play Black Ops 3 Zombies offline. However, some features, such as leaderboards and online multiplayer, will not be available.
7. Is Black Ops 3 Zombies cross-platform compatible?
No, Black Ops 3 does not support cross-platform play. This means you can only play with other players on the same platform as you (e.g., PlayStation players can only play with PlayStation players).
8. What are Easter Eggs in Black Ops 3 Zombies?
Easter Eggs are complex, multi-step quests hidden within the Zombies maps. Completing these Easter Eggs often unlocks secret endings, cutscenes, and other rewards. They are a major draw for many Zombies players.
9. Do I need to buy all the DLC to complete the Easter Eggs?
No, you do not need to buy all the DLC to complete the Easter Eggs. However, many of the most popular and challenging Easter Eggs are located in the DLC maps. You will need to purchase the specific DLC pack containing the map with the Easter Egg you want to complete.
10. What is GobbleGums in Black Ops 3 Zombies?
GobbleGums are consumable items that provide temporary perks or abilities in Zombies mode. They can be acquired through Dr. Monty’s Factory or purchased with Divinium. They add another layer of strategy to the gameplay.
11. Are there microtransactions in Black Ops 3 Zombies?
Yes, there are microtransactions in Black Ops 3 Zombies related to GobbleGums. Players can purchase Liquid Divinium, which is used to acquire GobbleGums from Dr. Monty’s Factory. However, these purchases are optional and not required to enjoy the game.
12. Can I still buy Black Ops 3 DLC today?
Yes, you can typically still purchase Black Ops 3 DLC on digital storefronts like PlayStation Store, Xbox Marketplace, and Steam. However, availability and pricing may vary depending on your region and platform.
13. Is Black Ops 3 Zombies available on PC?
Yes, Black Ops 3, including the Zombies mode, is available on PC. It can be purchased and downloaded through the Steam platform.
14. What is the storyline of Black Ops 3 Zombies?
The Black Ops 3 Zombies storyline is complex and involves multiple dimensions, alternate realities, and ancient artifacts. It continues the story established in previous Call of Duty games and features a recurring cast of characters.
15. Where can I find more information about Black Ops 3 Zombies?
There are numerous online resources available for Black Ops 3 Zombies, including the Call of Duty Wiki, YouTube channels dedicated to Zombies gameplay and Easter Egg guides, and online forums where players can discuss strategies and share information.