Carry Forward: Your MW2 Cosmetics in Modern Warfare 3 – Everything You Need to Know
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
Yes, absolutely! The good news is that the vast majority of your hard-earned or purchased cosmetics from Modern Warfare 2 (MW2) will carry over to Modern Warfare 3 (MW3). This includes a wide array of items, allowing you to maintain your personalized style as you transition to the new game. Let’s dive into the specifics of what you can expect to see making the leap.
What Exactly Carries Over?
It’s crucial to understand precisely what “carries forward” to avoid any disappointment. Here’s a breakdown of the confirmed items:
- Operator Skins: All the operator skins you’ve unlocked or purchased in MW2 are making the journey to MW3. That means all those hours spent grinding challenges or investing in the store won’t be in vain. Your favorite operator will be ready for action in the new installment.
- Weapon Blueprints: This is another significant win for players. Your customized weapon builds, complete with unique attachments and visual styles, will be available to use. Note that you must have unlocked the base weapons from MW2 to use their blueprints in MW3.
- Weapon Skins: Your array of weapon skins from MW2 will also be available in MW3.
- Weapon Charms, Stickers & Decals: Smaller cosmetic items like weapon charms, stickers, and decals are also part of the carry-forward program. You can still personalize your weapons.
- Emblems & Calling Cards: These elements, allowing you to express your personality and accomplishments, will transfer seamlessly.
- Loading Screens: Another layer of customization, loading screens obtained in MW2 will be accessible in MW3.
- Bundles: Any bundles purchased that contain the items mentioned above (Operator Skins, Weapon Blueprints, etc.) will also transfer their contents.
The Fine Print: What Doesn’t Carry Over?
While the Carry Forward program is generous, there are a few exceptions:
- Music Tracks: Unfortunately, the custom music tracks you might have unlocked or purchased in MW2 won’t be making the transition.
- MW2 Progression & Stats: Your player level, stats, and campaign progress won’t transfer. MW3 is a fresh start in that regard.
Why This Matters
The decision to allow cosmetics to carry forward is a significant one for Activision and the Call of Duty franchise. Here’s why it matters:
- Reward for Loyalty: It rewards players who have invested time and money into the game, creating a sense of ownership and continuity.
- Encourages Investment: Knowing that their purchases will remain valuable incentivizes players to spend on cosmetics.
- Player Retention: It encourages players to continue playing the new game, knowing they can bring their favorite items with them.
- Positive Community Sentiment: It generates goodwill within the community, demonstrating that the developers are listening to player feedback.
Transitioning to Warzone
It’s essential to remember that the Carry Forward system applies not only to MW3 but also to Warzone. Your MW2 cosmetics will be available in the updated Warzone experience when MW3 launches. This means you can maintain your personalized look across both the traditional multiplayer and the battle royale modes.
Makarov’s Return and Modern Warfare 3’s Narrative
The return of Vladimir Makarov, a central antagonist in the Modern Warfare storyline, adds another layer of excitement to MW3. With a new actor, Julian Kostov, portraying Makarov, it presents an opportunity to reimagine the character while retaining his core essence as a formidable foe. Makarov’s presence promises to deliver a compelling narrative experience that builds upon the events of MW2. To gain a deeper understanding of the social and cognitive aspects of games, consider exploring the resources at the Games Learning Society website, GamesLearningSociety.org.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do I have to repurchase skins in MW3 that I already own in MW2?
No. If you unlocked or purchased a cosmetic item (Operator Skin, Weapon Blueprint, etc.) in MW2, you do not need to repurchase it in MW3. It will automatically be available in your inventory.
2. What if I didn’t play MW2? Can I still get those cosmetics?
Yes, the article states, “Fortunately, players who purchase Modern Warfare 3 without playing MW2 can still unlock all the weapons from the game by completing the associated weapon challenge.”
3. Will my MW2 weapon attachments carry over?
Yes. According to the article, “All MW2 weapons, attachments, and blueprints will transfer as long as they have been unlocked.”
4. What about content from the original Modern Warfare (2019)?
No, the Carry Forward program only applies to content from Modern Warfare 2 (2022). Items from previous Call of Duty titles, including the Modern Warfare reboot of 2019, will not transfer.
5. How does this affect Warzone?
All the cosmetics that carry over to MW3 will also be available in Warzone, allowing you to maintain your personalized look across both games.
6. Are there any exceptions to the Carry Forward system?
Yes. As mentioned earlier, music tracks do not carry over.
7. Will my progress in MW2 affect my starting point in MW3?
No. Your player level, campaign progress, and other stats from MW2 will not affect your starting point in MW3. Everyone begins with a clean slate.
8. Is MW3 a direct sequel to MW2?
Yes. The campaign of MW3 picks up directly after the events of MW2, continuing the storyline.
9. Will there be a new Warzone map?
Yes, the article mentions: “It has been confirmed that there will be a whole new Warzone map, with leaks suggesting that Las Almas, the location from the Modern Warfare 2 campaign, will feature as the BR’s new large-scale map, slated to launch at the start of Season 1 in December 2023.”
10. Is MW3 a standalone game or DLC for MW2?
MW3 is a standalone game and a “full premium release” priced at $70. It is not an expansion or DLC for MW2.
11. What happens to MW2 when MW3 is released?
MW2 will remain playable, but the focus will shift to MW3 and the updated Warzone experience.
12. Will Shipment be in MW3?
The presence of specific maps like Shipment in MW3 has not been explicitly confirmed, but it is likely that popular maps will be added over time.
13. Who is playing Makarov in MW3?
Julian Kostov is the actor portraying Vladimir Makarov in MW3, taking over from Roman Varshavsky.
14. Is Zombies mode in MW3?
Yes! For the first time in Call of Duty history, Zombies is coming to the Modern Warfare universe in Modern Warfare III.
15. Will there be a new Warzone when MW3 is released?
Yes. When MW3 drops, Warzone will change into a 3rd version based on MW3 but it’ll still be just called Warzone. All your purchases from WZ2 will still be usable.
Conclusion
The Carry Forward program is a positive move for the Call of Duty franchise, rewarding player loyalty and encouraging continued engagement with the new titles. With the vast majority of cosmetics transferring seamlessly, players can jump into Modern Warfare 3 and Warzone with their favorite looks intact. Get ready to experience the next chapter in the Modern Warfare saga, complete with your personalized style.