Do You Need Xbox Gold to Play Black Ops 3? A Comprehensive Guide
The short answer is yes, you typically need Xbox Live Gold (now Xbox Game Pass Core) to play Call of Duty: Black Ops 3 online multiplayer and co-op modes. However, the situation has some nuances, and whether you need a subscription depends on what exactly you want to do in the game. Let’s delve into a detailed explanation.
Understanding the Multiplayer Requirement
For the majority of online activities in Black Ops 3, you will need an Xbox Live Gold or Xbox Game Pass Core subscription. This is required for:
- Playing online multiplayer modes against other players, including popular modes like Team Deathmatch, Domination, and Kill Confirmed.
- Participating in online co-op, which includes the zombies mode when playing with others online.
- Using any online features or competitive aspects of the game.
This requirement is standard across many multiplayer console games and is a key aspect of the Xbox ecosystem.
Xbox Live Gold Transition to Game Pass Core
It’s important to note that Xbox Live Gold has transitioned into Xbox Game Pass Core as of September 14, 2023. This means that the subscription you now need for online multiplayer on Xbox consoles is Xbox Game Pass Core, which essentially carries the same functionality as Xbox Live Gold, while also granting access to a library of games. Therefore, if you wish to engage in online multiplayer on Black Ops 3, you would need Xbox Game Pass Core.
What You Don’t Need Gold For
While Xbox Live Gold or Game Pass Core is necessary for online play, it’s not required for all aspects of Black Ops 3. You can enjoy several parts of the game completely offline, without needing any subscription. These include:
- Single-player Campaign: You can play the entire campaign mode offline without any subscription.
- Custom Multiplayer: You can create custom multiplayer games and play against bots or local friends without online access or a subscription. This is ideal if you’re looking to practice or just play with buddies on the same console.
- Certain Zombies Content: In the zombies mode, you can play the “Shadows of Evil” map and the “Dead Ops Arcade 2” minigame offline without a subscription.
Offline Mode: A Great Alternative
The ability to play these components offline provides a significant advantage for players who don’t have Xbox Game Pass Core or those who prefer to play offline. The single-player campaign is extensive, and playing custom games with bots is an excellent way to sharpen your skills.
Black Ops 3: A Multifaceted Game
Call of Duty: Black Ops 3 is not just an online multiplayer experience. It’s designed to offer a comprehensive gaming experience, including campaign, multiplayer, and zombies modes. All these modes, when available, create a robust experience catering to different players’ preferences, though the online parts do carry subscription requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to give a deeper understanding of how you need gold for Black Ops 3, and how the game works with respect to the Xbox ecosystem:
1. Is Black Ops 3 free?
No, Black Ops 3 is not a free game. You need to purchase the game to play it. However, it was once offered for free via PlayStation Plus, and might appear on promotions in the future.
2. Do I need to pay for zombies in Black Ops 3?
You don’t have to pay to access all zombies content. Shadows of Evil and the mini-game Dead Ops Arcade 2 are playable without any extra cost. However, other zombies maps require you to purchase DLC packs.
3. Is Black Ops 3 online only?
No, Black Ops 3 is not online only. It has an offline campaign mode, the “Shadows of Evil” zombie map, and a custom multiplayer mode where you can play offline with bots or local friends.
4. Can I play Black Ops 3 offline?
Yes, you can play the single-player campaign and certain zombies content (Shadows of Evil & Dead Ops Arcade 2) offline. You can also enjoy custom multiplayer games with bots or friends via local play.
5. How do I get gold camo fast in Black Ops 3?
There are a variety of guides available online detailing strategies to get gold camo fast in the game. Generally it involves completing specific challenges and using certain strategies while playing.
6. How much do Black Ops 3 zombie maps cost?
Individually, zombie maps can cost around $8 each, and these often come with bonus content such as liquid divinium vials. They were originally sold in DLC bundles, but can now be purchased individually.
7. Is Black Ops 3 Zombies separate?
Yes, Black Ops 3 features a dedicated zombies mode, with its own storyline and gameplay mechanics. There is also a Nightmares mode where all enemies in the campaign are replaced with zombies.
8. Can I play Call of Duty without gold?
Yes, you can play single-player campaign modes of most Call of Duty games without Xbox Game Pass Core or similar subscription. You need a subscription for the online multiplayer experience.
9. How can I get Xbox Game Pass Core for free?
You can earn Microsoft Points through the Microsoft Rewards program, which can be redeemed for subscriptions. There are also occasional promotions for free trials, and new Xbox purchases sometimes come with a gift card or a trial.
10. What are the minimum system requirements for Black Ops 3?
For Windows, you need at least: Windows 7 64-bit, an Intel Core i3-530 or AMD Phenom II X4 810, 6GB of RAM and an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 470 or ATI Radeon HD 6970.
11. Is Black Ops 3 for kids?
The game is rated for mature audiences due to its violence. However, the multiplayer aspects may be suitable for ages 10+, zombie mode for 13+ and overall campaign for 16+. There’s also a filter available to remove some of the graphic content.
12. Where can I play Black Ops 3?
Black Ops 3 is available on PS4, Xbox One, and Steam. You can play on PC with steam and on older generation consoles like PS4 and Xbox One.
13. Is Black Ops 3 on Xbox Game Pass?
No, Black Ops 3 is not part of Xbox Game Pass at this time. While it is an older title, it may be available on Xbox Game Pass in the future. It does however require Xbox Game Pass Core to play multiplayer.
14. How many zombie maps come with Black Ops 3?
The base game includes the Shadows of Evil map, and there are over 14 additional maps available through DLC packs.
15. Do I need Xbox Game Pass Core for Call of Duty multiplayer?
For most online multiplayer modes in Call of Duty, including Black Ops 3, you will need Xbox Game Pass Core. However, some specific games may have free-to-play modes that don’t need a subscription, such as Call of Duty: Warzone.
Final Thoughts
In summary, while you can enjoy a significant amount of Call of Duty: Black Ops 3 offline, you do need an Xbox Game Pass Core subscription to access the full online multiplayer experience. This includes playing against other players online and engaging in the online co-op modes. However, don’t forget that the single-player campaign, custom multiplayer with bots, and some zombie content offer robust offline gameplay alternatives. Always check for the most current Xbox service options to ensure your access is up-to-date.