Diving Deep into the Call of Duty: Black Ops II Vengeance Map Pack
The Vengeance Map Pack is the third downloadable content (DLC) pack for Call of Duty: Black Ops II, and it’s a significant addition to the game’s arsenal, offering both thrilling multiplayer experiences and a compelling new chapter in the Zombies saga. This map pack is renowned for its diverse content, which significantly expands the game’s lifespan and appeal. The Vengeance DLC includes four brand new multiplayer maps and one entirely new Zombies map that is called Buried, providing a fresh and exciting experience for Black Ops 2 players.
What’s Included in the Vengeance Map Pack?
The Vengeance DLC is not just a minor expansion; it delivers a significant amount of new gameplay content. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
Four New Multiplayer Maps
- Cove: This map takes players to a small, isolated island nestled in the heart of the Indian Ocean. Its tropical setting and tight, intricate layout make for intense and fast-paced skirmishes. The map’s design emphasizes close-quarters combat, perfect for shotgun and SMG users. It’s a location that forces players to quickly adapt to the small space, promoting aggression and strategic positioning.
- Rush: Set on a destroyed suspension bridge, Rush offers a visually striking environment that is both challenging and unique. Players navigate across the wreckage, dodging debris and utilizing the varied vertical and horizontal spaces for strategic advantage. The chaotic setting encourages a mix of long-range engagements and intense close combat, keeping gameplay engaging and varied.
- Uplink: This map brings players to the heart of a high-tech facility, complete with multiple levels and interconnected pathways. Its design encourages players to utilize flanking maneuvers and navigate tight corridors as well as open areas. Uplink has a futuristic, clean aesthetic, making it a distinctly different experience from other Black Ops II maps, and a favourite for many players.
- Detour: This map presents all-out combat in the midst of an old, destroyed suspension bridge. With its multiple lanes, long sightlines and flanking opportunities, Detour is a great map for players who prefer a mix of tactical and aggressive playstyles. Players need to keep moving to stay safe from long-range weapons and to prevent from being flanked by opponents.
One New Zombies Map: Buried
- Buried (Resolution 1295/Processing): This Zombies map is a significant offering within the Vengeance pack. Set in an underground, old-west style mining town, Buried features the iconic Green Run crew and continues their storyline. The map is filled with unique mechanics, like the giant, a friendly behemoth who assists players, and the various side quests and buildables that give Buried its unique identity. This map is renowned for its complexity and rich story elements. It offers a challenging and immersive zombie experience, becoming a fan favorite due to its unique atmosphere and engaging gameplay.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How much did the Vengeance Map Pack cost at release?
The Vengeance Map Pack was originally priced at 1200 Microsoft Points (on Xbox 360) or $15 on other platforms.
2. What platforms was the Vengeance Map Pack released on?
The Vengeance Map Pack was released on Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, and PC.
3. Is the Vengeance Map Pack included in the Black Ops II Season Pass?
Yes, the Vengeance Map Pack was included in the Black Ops II Season Pass, which granted access to all four DLC packs for a discounted price of $49.99.
4. What is the storyline connection of the Buried Zombies map?
Buried continues the storyline of the Green Run crew. It is set after the events of Die Rise and is the last chapter in the original timeline.
5. Who are the playable characters in Buried?
The playable characters in Buried are the Green Run crew: Marlton Johnson, Russman, Samuel Stuhlinger, and Abigail “Misty” Briarton.
6. What are some unique features of the Buried Zombies map?
Buried has several unique features including The Giant, a friendly non-playable character, a large and varied map, as well as various complex quests and buildables. Players can use the Giant to access different areas and defeat zombies.
7. Which other Black Ops II DLC packs are available?
Other Black Ops II DLC packs include:
* Revolution: Including maps like Hydro and Die Rise.
* Uprising: Introducing the Mob of the Dead zombies map.
* Apocalypse: Featuring the Origins zombies map.
8. How does the map pack fit into the overall Black Ops II storyline?
The Vengeance map pack, specifically with Buried, continues the narrative thread introduced with Green Run, offering critical plot points and a conclusion for the original timeline of the zombie mode in Black Ops 2. The DLC enhances the story with its distinct environment and character-driven gameplay.
9. Are the Vengeance maps good for competitive play?
While this is subjective, many players consider maps like Cove and Uplink as suitable for competitive play due to their balanced layouts and reliance on tactical movement and precision.
10. Does the Vengeance map pack offer any other content aside from the maps?
No, the Vengeance map pack primarily focuses on the four new multiplayer maps and the Buried zombies map. It does not offer any additional weapons or equipment, focusing instead on expanding the play areas.
11. Is the Vengeance DLC still available for purchase?
Yes, the Vengeance DLC is still available on various platforms, though availability and methods of purchase may vary depending on the platform (e.g., digitally on Xbox marketplace or PSN store).
12. Why is Black Ops II still expensive?
Black Ops II maintains a relatively high price due to its backwards compatibility on Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S, as well as its popularity and status as a fan-favorite Call of Duty title. Additionally, there are very few CoD games available on Xbox 360.
13. Can you still find players online on the Vengeance maps?
Yes, while the player base has decreased over the years, you can still find players online on Black Ops II, especially on more popular maps from the DLCs. Finding full lobbies is more common in the later parts of the day.
14. Is the Vengeance pack worth buying for someone new to Black Ops II?
If you are still interested in playing Black Ops 2 and would like to see some of the best maps the game has to offer, the Vengeance pack is still a must-have due to its quality multiplayer maps and engaging Zombies experience with Buried.
15. Where does Vengeance fall in the release order for DLC packs?
The Vengeance Map Pack is the third of four DLC packs for Call of Duty: Black Ops II, released after Revolution and Uprising, and before Apocalypse.
Conclusion
The Vengeance Map Pack stands out as one of the most comprehensive and essential DLC expansions for Call of Duty: Black Ops II. It introduces four new, engaging multiplayer maps and the popular Buried zombie map, enriching the core game with diverse and exciting content. Whether you are a dedicated multiplayer fan or a hardcore Zombies player, the Vengeance Map Pack provides hours of new and exciting experiences. Its content remains highly regarded within the Black Ops II community, making it a worthwhile addition to any player’s library.