How Long Does a Game of DMZ Last?
A deployment in the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone), Call of Duty’s extraction-based mode, lasts for a maximum of 25 minutes. This is the timer you’ll be battling against as you infiltrate, complete missions, loot, and attempt to exfiltrate with your hard-earned gear and cash. Remember, every second counts, and efficient gameplay is key to success and survival!
Time is of the Essence: Understanding the DMZ Clock
The 25-minute time limit in DMZ is a crucial element that dictates the pace and strategy of each deployment. It forces players to make quick decisions and prioritize their objectives. Whether you’re a seasoned operator or a fresh recruit, understanding how the timer works and how to manage your time effectively is vital for success.
The Gas and Exfiltration
The 25-minute timer isn’t just a countdown; it’s a signal for the arrival of the expanding gas. As the timer ticks down, the gas begins to encroach upon the map, shrinking the safe zone and forcing players toward designated exfiltration points. This adds another layer of pressure, as the AI and other players will also be vying for the same extraction zones. Exfiltration points are usually marked on the map and they sometimes can be contested by other players. So, when the timer is ending, players converge there and fight.
Strategic Time Management
Efficient time management is essential to get the best results. Players need to strategically plan their routes, prioritize objectives, and manage engagements. For example, if you are going after a mission, make sure that you have enough time to complete it and move towards an exfil point. It might be more efficient to abandon a mission if you have a more lucrative opportunity in the area.
Mastering the Exfil: Your Ticket Out
Surviving DMZ and keeping your loot requires successfully exfiltrating from the map. The most common method is using one of the designated exfil choppers. However, there are alternative ways to escape, each with its own risk and reward.
Standard Exfil
These are marked on the map and can become hot spots. Exfil points are usually visible by a blue smoke flare that signals that the helicopter will be coming. Be prepared for a fight as you are waiting for your turn.
Final Exfil
This extraction point appears at the end of the game and is considered the most dangerous. When the timer is almost up, the final extraction point is marked. If you want to extract at this point you should be well equipped and ready to take on other players as well as AI.
Hostage Rescue Contract
Completing a Hostage Rescue contract allows you to call in a dedicated extraction helicopter. A helicopter will land at the marked location, letting you successfully exfil.
Heavy Chopper
Available in Season 3, these heavy choppers can be used to exfiltrate at any time and from anywhere. Finding one of these will allow you to use it for exfil.
Personal Exfil
For a hefty price of $50,000, you can purchase a personal exfil at a Buy Station. This triggers a dedicated helicopter to land at an inactive exfil point, offering a potentially stealthier escape route. The price might be worthwhile if you are carrying an item of high value.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About DMZ Time Limits
1. What happens if I don’t exfil in DMZ?
If you fail to exfiltrate before the timer runs out and the gas completely engulfs the map, you will die and lose all your gear, including weapons, equipment, and mission items. There is no “overtime” or grace period.
2. Does the timer pause during missions or engagements?
No, the timer continues to run regardless of what you’re doing in the DMZ. Whether you’re engaged in a firefight, completing a contract, or looting a stronghold, the clock keeps ticking down.
3. Can I extend the 25-minute timer?
No, the 25-minute timer is fixed and cannot be extended by any means.
4. How many teams are in a DMZ match?
DMZ is designed for around 22 teams of three players each. Be prepared for encounters with other operators.
5. Where is the most cash in DMZ?
Ashika Island is known for its lucrative loot, especially the Drifting Supply Bag, which contains Ashika masks worth $25,000 each. Also, Vondel’s Aquarium has been known to provide high-tier loot, accessible through the rooftop.
6. What is the point of money in DMZ?
Cash is used to purchase weapons, killstreaks, field upgrades, and personal exfils at Buy Stations. Extracting with cash also reduces the cooldown time for your insured weapons.
7. Can I leave DMZ with money?
No, money does not carry over between deployments. Any cash you have when you exfil or die is lost.
8. Does double XP work in DMZ?
Yes, double XP tokens activated in other Call of Duty modes will apply in DMZ, helping you level up faster.
9. How can I make money fast in DMZ?
The fastest ways to earn money are by looting high-value items and completing contracts. Prioritize contracts that offer high cash rewards and focus on looting areas known for valuable items.
10. What happens if I die in DMZ?
If you die in DMZ, you lose all the gear you were carrying, including weapons, equipment, and mission items. You’ll need to re-equip and re-enter the DMZ on your next deployment.
11. Are there police stations in DMZ?
Yes, police stations are located on the Al Mazrah map, and can contain valuable loot. They may not be immediately obvious, but are worth exploring.
12. Is DMZ fun?
Many players find DMZ to be a unique and engaging experience that blends the tension of a roguelike with open-world exploration. The risk-reward dynamic and mission-based gameplay offer a refreshing alternative to traditional Call of Duty modes. DMZ successfully blends the tension of a great roguelike with the kind of open-world exploration that makes games like Metal Gear Solid 5: The Phantom Pain and Hitman 3 so immersive. As the Games Learning Society notes, innovative game design can significantly enhance player engagement.
13. Can you use stealth takedowns in DMZ?
Yes, you can perform stealth takedowns on unarmored AI enemies by approaching them from behind. This can be a useful tactic for clearing out areas quietly.
14. Did the AI get harder in DMZ?
The AI in DMZ has undergone several balancing adjustments since its initial release. While the AI can be challenging, with some players describing their aim as “aimbot”, the developers have made changes to adjust the number of AI spawning, their accuracy, and the types of AI encountered.
15. What is the best loot in DMZ?
Besides Ashika masks, high-tier loot includes gold bars, encrypted hard drives, rare weapons, and valuable equipment like three-plate vests and large backpacks. Prioritize looting strongholds, locked spaces, and areas known for high-value items. You can also find high tier loot inside the tunnel entrance to the underground Stronghold or the H.M.S. Shipwreck Cache. GamesLearningSociety.org can give you more information about these locations.
Understanding the 25-minute time limit is fundamental to mastering DMZ. By efficiently managing your time, prioritizing objectives, and mastering exfiltration strategies, you can increase your chances of survival and success in this high-stakes extraction mode. Good luck, operator!