Is Modern Warfare 3 Basically DLC? Unpacking the Controversy
The question on many Call of Duty fans’ minds is: Is Modern Warfare 3 (MW3) essentially a glorified DLC for Modern Warfare 2 (MW2)? The answer, while nuanced, leans toward a yes, but with significant caveats. While it’s not a traditional DLC in the sense of a small add-on, MW3’s development and integration do blur the lines between a full-fledged game and an expansion. Let’s unpack the details.
The Core Argument: MW2 Dependency
The most compelling evidence for the “DLC” argument stems from MW3’s dependency on MW2’s infrastructure. Initially, players couldn’t launch MW3 as a standalone game. Instead, it operates through the “COD HQ” interface, shared with MW2 and Warzone. This means you need to have MW2 installed to access MW3 in many cases. This design choice makes MW3 feel less like a new game and more like a major add-on package within the established COD ecosystem.
Furthermore, a substantial portion of content and progression carry over from MW2. This includes operators, weapon skins, and COD Points. This continuity further blurs the lines between games. The argument is that if a significant portion of your earned assets transfers and the games share the same launcher interface, is it truly a distinct title or just a significant content expansion for MW2?
Reframing the Narrative: It’s More Than Just DLC
While the “DLC” label has some validity, it’s crucial to acknowledge the substantial new content and changes in MW3. Calling it only DLC is simplistic. MW3 features a brand-new single-player campaign, continuing directly from the events of MW2 and introducing a host of new characters and storylines, including the infamous Makarov. This campaign isn’t just a minor side story but a full-fledged narrative experience, albeit a relatively short one, reportedly lasting around 3-4 hours.
In addition, MW3 includes a dedicated Zombies mode, a substantial offering that provides an entirely new gameplay experience. This mode is not just a reskinned version of a previous zombie mode but a new adventure. Also, while much carries over from MW2, MW3 also features new weapons, maps and a redesigned multiplayer experience. The core gameplay loop remains familiar but with key differences and changes.
The Developer’s Perspective
Activision and Sledgehammer Games, the developers, present MW3 as a fully-fledged, standalone sequel, albeit one that benefits from and builds upon the established foundation of MW2. The narrative continuation and the introduction of new modes and content support this classification. However, the tight integration within the existing COD infrastructure fuels the DLC argument and creates a complicated perception.
Ultimately, the “DLC” label isn’t entirely accurate, but the nature of MW3’s launch, dependence, and content rollout make its classification a matter of opinion. MW3 falls into a gray area; more than a traditional DLC but less than a completely standalone title. It represents a shift in how Activision approaches yearly releases of Call of Duty titles, blurring the boundaries between expansions and sequels.
The Verdict
MW3 is not just a DLC, but it is heavily influenced by the infrastructure and mechanics of Modern Warfare 2. It can be described as a large-scale expansion that builds off its predecessor. Players expecting a complete reboot and separation from MW2 may be surprised. MW3 is a natural continuation of MW2, leveraging shared assets and progression, but it introduces new story, maps and experiences of its own. It sits somewhere between expansion and sequel, and whether you consider it glorified DLC or a worthwhile new installment may depend on your personal perception and what you prioritize in your gaming experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Modern Warfare 3
1. Do I Need MW2 to Play MW3?
In many cases, yes. You need to have MW2 installed because MW3 launches through the COD HQ interface, which is shared with MW2 and Warzone. This is not a completely standalone title you can launch separately on many platforms.
2. Does Anything Transfer From MW2 to MW3?
Yes, several things transfer from MW2 to MW3, including unlocked Operators and Operator Skins. Also, COD Points carry over. This allows you to maintain your progress and cosmetic options.
3. Is MW3 a Direct Sequel to MW2?
Yes, Modern Warfare 3 is the direct sequel to 2022’s Modern Warfare 2. It continues the campaign storyline and introduces new characters within the same world.
4. Should I Play MW2 Before MW3?
It’s highly recommended to play MW2 before MW3 due to the narrative connection. While not essential, it will enhance your understanding of the story and characters.
5. Does MW3 Have Zombies?
Yes, Modern Warfare 3 has a dedicated Zombies mode that launched alongside the main game. It’s a significant new mode within the core game.
6. How Long is the MW3 Campaign?
The single-player campaign for Modern Warfare 3 is reportedly 3 to 4 hours long, based on early access player experiences.
7. Is MW3 a Remake of the Original?
No, this MW3 is not a remake but a direct sequel to Modern Warfare 2 (2022), continuing the rebooted Modern Warfare sub-series. It’s the third entry in this rebooted storyline.
8. How Do I Access the MW3 Campaign?
You can access the MW3 Campaign by going to the Modern Warfare III section in COD HQ and selecting the Campaign tile. Follow the prompts to start your game.
9. What Time Did MW3 Campaign Early Access Start?
Campaign early access started at 10 a.m. PT on Thursday, Nov. 2 on PC, through Steam and Battle.net, as well as on Xbox and Playstation platforms.
10. What is Included in MW3 DLC?
Historically, DLC in Call of Duty has included both Multiplayer Maps and Spec Ops missions. This DLC is now often bundled into a large Content Collection packs.
11. How Many Copies of MW3 Have Been Sold?
The original Modern Warfare 3 (2011) sold over 30 million copies. The 2023 game has not reached similar sales yet.
12. How Many Missions Are in the MW3 Campaign?
The Modern Warfare 3 campaign has a total of 14 missions, each offering varying objectives and rewards.
13. Is There Survival Mode in MW3?
The original Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 introduced Survival mode, a multiplayer horde mode. The new MW3 does not contain a direct port of this specific Survival mode.
14. Will MW3 Have DMZ?
No, DMZ mode was not carried forward into Modern Warfare 3. The mode’s mechanics have been incorporated into the new Zombies mode.
15. How Do I Claim the Zombie Ghost Operator Skin?
The Zombie Ghost operator skin is obtained by pre-ordering the digital edition of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3. It was a pre-order bonus for the game’s release on November 10, 2023.