Delving into the Undead: Which Call of Duty Has Zombieland?

The Call of Duty entry that features a map most closely resembling “Zombieland,” not by name but thematically, is Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare. Specifically, it’s the Zombies in Spaceland map. This map throws players into a 1980s-themed amusement park, complete with breakdancing zombies, a maniacal movie director, and a vibrant, retro aesthetic reminiscent of the comedic horror style of the movie Zombieland. While not directly called “Zombieland,” the Spaceland map captures a similar lighthearted, over-the-top zombie experience.

Exploring Zombies in Spaceland: A Retro Horror Extravaganza

Zombies in Spaceland isn’t just another zombie map; it’s a carefully crafted love letter to the 1980s horror genre. The setting, an abandoned amusement park seemingly plucked straight from a retro slasher film, is both eerie and entertaining. Players take on the roles of aspiring actors who find themselves trapped in a horror movie directed by the enigmatic Willard Wyler, played by Paul Reubens. The goal? Survive the hordes of undead while uncovering the secrets of the park and escaping Wyler’s twisted cinematic vision.

The Gameplay Experience

The gameplay in Zombies in Spaceland is classic Call of Duty Zombies fare, enhanced with unique features. Players must work together to unlock areas of the park, activate power, and acquire powerful weapons to fend off the ever-increasing waves of zombies. The map introduces the “Afterlife Arcade,” a unique mechanic where downed players can complete challenges to earn their way back into the game. This adds a layer of strategy and risk-reward to the gameplay, keeping players engaged even after they’ve fallen.

Characters and Story

Zombies in Spaceland features a cast of memorable characters, each with their own distinct personality and backstory. Beyond the player characters, Willard Wyler acts as the puppet master, guiding and taunting players throughout their ordeal. The storyline, while not as complex as some of the more lore-heavy Zombies maps from the Black Ops series, provides a compelling narrative that ties together the various elements of the map.

Comparing Spaceland to Other Call of Duty Zombies Experiences

While Zombies in Spaceland stands out for its unique theme and gameplay, it’s essential to understand its place within the broader context of Call of Duty Zombies. Compared to the gritty and often somber tones of maps like “Origins” or “Mob of the Dead,” Spaceland is much more lighthearted and comedic. It emphasizes fun and accessibility, making it a great entry point for new players while still offering a challenging experience for veterans.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Call of Duty Zombies

Here are 15 frequently asked questions about the Call of Duty Zombies mode, covering various aspects of the undead phenomenon within the franchise:

1. Which Call of Duty game started the Zombies mode? The Zombies mode first appeared in Call of Duty: World at War, developed by Treyarch. It was initially a hidden bonus mode unlocked after completing the main campaign.
2. Which Call of Duty has the most Zombies maps? Call of Duty: Black Ops III has the most Zombies maps, especially with the inclusion of the Zombie Chronicles DLC, which remastered several classic maps.
3. What is the hardest Call of Duty Zombies map? Opinions vary, but many consider Shangri-La or Nacht Der Untoten to be among the most challenging due to their limited space and high zombie density.
4. Is there a storyline in Call of Duty Zombies? Yes, the Treyarch-developed Black Ops series has an extensive and intricate storyline involving characters like Richtofen, Dempsey, Nikolai, and Takeo.
5. What is the Pack-a-Punch machine in Zombies? The Pack-a-Punch machine is a device that upgrades weapons, making them more powerful and effective against the increasingly difficult waves of zombies.
6. What are Wonder Weapons in Call of Duty Zombies? Wonder Weapons are unique and powerful weapons that are often difficult to acquire but offer significant advantages against the undead hordes. Examples include the Ray Gun, Thundergun, and Apothicon Servant.
7. What is “perk-a-cola” in Zombies? Perk-a-Colas are vending machines that dispense special abilities, such as increased health, faster reloading, and the ability to revive yourself.
8. Which Call of Duty Zombies map is considered the best by most players? This is subjective, but maps like Origins, Mob of the Dead, and Der Eisendrache are frequently cited as fan favorites due to their intricate design, compelling storylines, and challenging gameplay.
9. Do all Call of Duty games have a Zombies mode? No, not all Call of Duty games feature a Zombies mode. It is primarily a feature of games developed by Treyarch, but other developers have also included it in their titles.
10. What is “Easter Egg” in Call of Duty Zombies? An “Easter Egg” is a hidden quest or series of tasks that players can complete within a Zombies map, often revealing more of the storyline or unlocking special rewards.
11. How do you survive high rounds in Call of Duty Zombies? Surviving high rounds requires strategic gameplay, including effective weapon usage, map knowledge, efficient training methods (leading zombies in a circle), and smart use of perks and equipment.
12. What is the “Mystery Box” in Call of Duty Zombies? The Mystery Box is a random weapon dispenser that allows players to obtain powerful weapons, including Wonder Weapons, for a price.
13. Can you play Call of Duty Zombies solo? Yes, most Call of Duty Zombies maps can be played solo, although it can be more challenging than playing with a team.
14. What Call of Duty Zombies introduced the open-world concept? Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War introduced the Outbreak mode, which featured large, open-world maps with objective-based gameplay.
15. Is there a Games Learning Society dedicated to studying Call of Duty Zombies? While there isn’t a specific society solely dedicated to Zombies, organizations like the Games Learning Society recognize the educational and social aspects of gaming, including the strategic thinking, teamwork, and problem-solving skills developed through playing games like Call of Duty Zombies. Check out GamesLearningSociety.org for more information on gaming and learning.

Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of Call of Duty Zombies

Whether you’re battling breakdancing zombies in Zombies in Spaceland or unraveling complex narratives in the Black Ops series, Call of Duty Zombies offers a diverse and engaging experience that continues to captivate players worldwide. From its humble beginnings as a hidden bonus mode to its current status as a major franchise staple, the Zombies mode has proven its staying power and remains a beloved part of the Call of Duty universe.