Awakening: Unveiling the First DLC for Call of Duty: Black Ops III
The first DLC for Call of Duty: Black Ops III is titled Awakening. Released initially for PlayStation 4 on February 2, 2016, Awakening marked the beginning of the post-launch content rollout for the game. It introduced a suite of fresh experiences, including four new multiplayer maps and an expansion of the Zombies narrative with the new map Der Eisendrache. This DLC not only provided players with new battlegrounds but also continued the story that many had grown to love. Awakening set the stage for future DLCs and demonstrated the kind of high-quality content that would follow, ensuring the longevity of Black Ops III.
New Multiplayer Maps in Awakening
Awakening brought four distinct multiplayer maps to the table, each with its unique theme and gameplay challenges. These new environments offered fresh tactical opportunities for players and significantly diversified the map selection available in the base game.
Rise
Set in the snowy Zurich mountains, Rise is an under-construction research campus focused on Coalescence technology. The map’s design features a mix of indoor and outdoor combat scenarios with several vertical vantage points that reward players who can navigate the terrain effectively. The layout encourages both long-range and close-quarters engagements, offering something for all playstyles.
Splash
Splash is a vibrant and abandoned waterpark resort located in the Southeast United States. The colorful environment is filled with slides, pools, and other waterpark features that provide a playful backdrop for intense combat. This map is generally more open and has some very fun flow and choke points.
Gauntlet
Gauntlet is a military training facility that reflects the classic 3-lane map design often found in Call of Duty titles, while giving each lane its own twist. The map’s three distinct lanes each feature unique environments—a jungle, a rainy urban street, and an icy, snowy arctic zone. This variety encourages players to adapt their strategies throughout the match.
Skyjacked
Skyjacked is a re-imagining of the popular Hijacked map from Call of Duty: Black Ops II, now set on a Z.O.F. police VTOL hovering over downtown Zurich. This map retains the tight, close-quarters combat of its predecessor, but with a new setting and verticality offering players even more exciting gameplay options. The dynamic nature of the environment, high above a bustling city, adds an extra layer of intensity to the classic layout.
Der Eisendrache: A New Zombies Chapter
Beyond multiplayer, Awakening included a crucial addition to the Zombies narrative: Der Eisendrache. This map follows the Origins characters as they travel to an old Austrian castle, where they face new challenges and discover more about the origins of the zombie apocalypse. Der Eisendrache is known for its complex layout, unique weaponry, and the introduction of the Elemental Bows, which added a new dimension to the gameplay. The map was a hit with fans, often considered one of the best Black Ops 3 Zombies maps.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Black Ops III’s First DLC
1. When was the Awakening DLC released on PlayStation 4?
The Awakening DLC was initially released on PlayStation 4 on February 2, 2016.
2. What content is included in the Awakening DLC?
The Awakening DLC includes four new multiplayer maps (Rise, Splash, Gauntlet, and Skyjacked) and the Zombies map Der Eisendrache.
3. Is Skyjacked a brand-new map or a remake?
Skyjacked is a re-imagining of the Hijacked map from Call of Duty: Black Ops II.
4. What is the setting of the Rise multiplayer map?
Rise is set at an under-construction research campus in the snowy Zurich mountains.
5. Where does the Splash map take place?
Splash is located at an abandoned waterpark resort in the Southeast United States.
6. What makes Der Eisendrache a notable Zombies map?
Der Eisendrache is notable for its complex layout, the introduction of Elemental Bows, and being a pivotal chapter in the Origins Zombies storyline.
7. What are Elemental Bows in Der Eisendrache?
Elemental Bows are special weapons with elemental properties that players can obtain and upgrade on the Der Eisendrache map, offering unique advantages.
8. Is the Awakening DLC part of the Black Ops III Season Pass?
Yes, the Awakening DLC is included in the Black Ops III Season Pass, which grants access to all four DLC packs.
9. Can I purchase the Awakening DLC separately?
Yes, the Awakening DLC can be purchased separately without buying the Season Pass.
10. Does the Awakening DLC include new weapons or equipment?
While the DLC primarily focuses on maps, it introduces new gameplay elements within Der Eisendrache, including the Elemental Bows. New weapons in BO3 are primarily obtained through supply drops.
11. What is the significance of the Origins characters in Der Eisendrache?
The Origins characters are part of a long-running Zombies storyline, and their journey in Der Eisendrache continues their mission to stop the zombie apocalypse.
12. Is there a split-screen option for the new maps in Awakening?
Yes, Call of Duty: Black Ops III supports two-player split-screen online in both Multiplayer and Zombies modes; consoles like the Playstation 4 and Xbox One also allow for 4 player split-screen on local play. These features work for the new DLC maps as well.
13. Can players access the Awakening DLC on all platforms?
While released first on PlayStation 4, the Awakening DLC was eventually made available on Xbox One and PC.
14. How does the Gauntlet map differ from the others in Awakening?
Gauntlet is unique for its three distinct lanes, each featuring a different environment, creating diverse combat opportunities.
15. Where does Der Eisendrache pick up the Zombies story from?
Der Eisendrache picks up the story from where The Giant Zombies map left off, continuing the journey of the Origins characters.
Conclusion
The Awakening DLC for Call of Duty: Black Ops III was a critical release, setting the tone for the quality and scope of future DLC packs. It provided players with a wealth of new content, including memorable multiplayer maps and the iconic Der Eisendrache Zombies map. Its success solidified the expansion model for Black Ops III, contributing significantly to the game’s longevity and cementing its place in the Call of Duty franchise.