Delving Deep into the Modern Warfare Timeline: Is MW2 a Continuation of MW3?
No, Modern Warfare 2 (MW2), specifically the 2022 release, is not a continuation of Modern Warfare 3 (MW3). Instead, MW3 (2023) is a direct sequel to MW2 (2022). The Modern Warfare series has undergone a reboot, leading to potential confusion, but understanding the timelines is crucial. The rebooted series follows Modern Warfare (2019), then Modern Warfare 2 (2022), and finally, Modern Warfare 3 (2023). This article will dive into the intricacies of the Modern Warfare timeline, clarifying the relationship between these games and answering frequently asked questions to provide a comprehensive understanding.
Understanding the Modern Warfare Reboot and Timeline
The Call of Duty franchise is known for its complex and sometimes convoluted timelines. The Modern Warfare sub-series is no exception, especially with the introduction of the rebooted trilogy. To understand the relationship between MW2 and MW3, we need to differentiate between the original games and the new installments.
The Original Modern Warfare Trilogy
The original trilogy consists of:
- Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare (2007)
- Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 (2009)
- Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 (2011)
This trilogy tells a complete story arc involving characters like Captain Price, Soap MacTavish, and the villainous Vladimir Makarov.
The Rebooted Modern Warfare Trilogy
The rebooted trilogy, on the other hand, presents a reimagining of the original story, with familiar characters in new contexts:
- Call of Duty: Modern Warfare (2019)
- Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 (2022)
- Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 (2023)
The 2019 reboot serves as a fresh start, setting the stage for MW2 (2022), which directly leads into the events of MW3 (2023).
MW2 (2022) as a Stepping Stone to MW3 (2023)
Modern Warfare 2 (2022) continues the narrative established in the 2019 reboot. It focuses on Task Force 141 as they combat a global terrorist threat. The game’s ending directly sets up the events of MW3 (2023), making it clear that MW3 is the continuation of MW2’s story. Therefore, MW2 (2022) is a crucial part of the new timeline, acting as a bridge between the reboot and its direct sequel.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Modern Warfare 3 (2023) a remake of the original MW3?
No, Modern Warfare 3 (2023) is not a direct remake of the original Modern Warfare 3 (2011). While it features familiar characters and plot elements, it’s a reimagining within the context of the rebooted Modern Warfare timeline. It continues the story from Modern Warfare 2 (2022).
2. Who developed the campaign for Modern Warfare 3 (2023)?
The campaign for Modern Warfare 3 (2023) was developed by Sledgehammer Games in partnership with Infinity Ward.
3. Does Modern Warfare 3 (2023) continue Captain Price’s story?
Yes, Modern Warfare 3 (2023) continues Captain Price’s story from the 2019 and 2022 games. He remains a central character in the rebooted timeline.
4. Are the Modern Warfare games connected to the Black Ops series?
While there are hints and cameos that suggest a shared universe, the Modern Warfare and Black Ops series generally operate as separate timelines. A campaign cameo in Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War suggests that Black Ops and Modern Warfare share a universe.
5. How does weapon progression work between Modern Warfare 2 (2022) and Modern Warfare 3 (2023)?
Weapon progression is designed to carry forward between the games. Leveling up a weapon in Modern Warfare 3 (2023) also levels it up in Modern Warfare 2 (2022), and vice versa. This includes unlocking attachments, camos, and mastery camos.
6. Is the timeline of the original Modern Warfare games different from the rebooted ones?
Yes, the timeline of the original Modern Warfare trilogy is distinct from the rebooted series. The events, while sharing characters, occur in different contexts and timeframes. The original MW2, for example, takes place in 2016, while the new MW2’s campaign takes place in 2022.
7. Where does Modern Warfare 2 (2022) fit into the Call of Duty timeline?
Modern Warfare 2 (2022) is a continuation of the 2019 Modern Warfare reboot. It takes place in late 2022 and follows Task Force 141’s efforts to stop a terrorist threat.
8. Did Ghost die in the rebooted Modern Warfare 2 (2022)?
No, Ghost did not die in the rebooted Modern Warfare 2 (2022). While a betrayal by Shepherd occurs, similar to the original MW2 (2009), Ghost survives in this new timeline.
9. What is the main plot of Modern Warfare 3 (2023)?
The main plot of Modern Warfare 3 (2023) involves Task Force 141 hunting Vladimir Makarov, a Russian terrorist who leads the Russian Ultranationalist party. Makarov launches terror attacks across Europe, leading to a large-scale war.
10. What are the confirmed platforms for Modern Warfare 3 (2023)?
The confirmed platforms for Modern Warfare 3 (2023) are PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Windows, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.
11. Is there a Zombies mode in Modern Warfare 3 (2023)?
Yes, Modern Warfare 3 (2023) includes a Zombies mode built around an open world with a player-versus-environment (PvE) experience. It’s the first Modern Warfare title to include a Zombies mode.
12. How soon after the events of Modern Warfare 2 (2022) does Modern Warfare 3 (2023) take place?
Modern Warfare 3 (2023) starts immediately after the end of Modern Warfare 2 (2022), literally hours after, continuing the narrative without a significant time gap.
13. What is “Carry Forward” in Modern Warfare 3 (2023)?
“Carry Forward” refers to the feature where weapon progression and unlocks from Modern Warfare 2 (2022) are transferred to Modern Warfare 3 (2023). This allows players to continue using and leveling up their weapons from the previous game.
14. How is the Modern Warfare timeline different from the other Call of Duty games?
The Modern Warfare timeline, particularly the rebooted series, focuses on contemporary conflicts and tactical operations. Other Call of Duty games, like the Black Ops series or those set in World War II, explore different time periods and themes. The original Modern Warfare timeline has completed with MW3 (2011), and the new MW games are entirely different.
15. In what order should I play the Modern Warfare games to understand the story?
To understand the rebooted Modern Warfare story, play the games in the following order:
- Call of Duty: Modern Warfare (2019)
- Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 (2022)
- Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 (2023)
Conclusion: Navigating the Modern Warfare Maze
The Modern Warfare series offers a thrilling and immersive experience, but understanding the timeline is essential to fully appreciate the story. MW2 (2022) serves as a pivotal installment in the rebooted trilogy, setting the stage for the events of MW3 (2023). By recognizing the distinctions between the original and rebooted timelines, players can navigate the Call of Duty universe with clarity and fully engage with the compelling narratives crafted by Sledgehammer Games and Infinity Ward.
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By understanding the connections and nuances within the Modern Warfare series, players can deepen their appreciation for the intricate storylines and the evolving world of Call of Duty.