Will MW3 Be PS5 Only? A Comprehensive Guide to Platform Availability

The short answer is no, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III (MW3) is not a PlayStation 5 (PS5) exclusive. While the PS5 is indeed a major platform for the game, it’s important to understand that MW3 is launching across a wide range of consoles and PC. This means players can enjoy the game on various systems, ensuring a broad player base and a more inclusive experience. Let’s delve into the details of where you can play the newest Call of Duty title.

Platform Availability: Beyond the PS5

While many might associate a visually stunning game like MW3 with the latest generation consoles, the game is designed to be accessible across different platforms, catering to a diverse gaming community. Here’s the complete list of confirmed platforms:

PlayStation 5 (PS5): As expected, MW3 is a prominent title on Sony’s flagship console.
PlayStation 4 (PS4): Yes, the game is also available on the older PS4, ensuring that gamers who haven’t upgraded yet can still play.
Xbox Series X|S: Microsoft’s current generation consoles are also receiving a full release of MW3.
Xbox One: Similar to PlayStation, MW3 will also be available on the older Xbox One.
PC: The game will be available on PC via Battle.net and Steam.

This cross-generational availability is a significant factor, allowing players to stay within the Call of Duty community regardless of the console generation they own.

Why Not PS5 Exclusive?

The decision to release Modern Warfare III on multiple platforms is primarily driven by Activision’s strategy to reach as many players as possible. By releasing the game across PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and PC, they ensure a broader market reach, maximizing the game’s potential sales and player base. This approach also avoids fragmenting the player community, as friends can still play together regardless of their specific platform choice.

MW3 Features and Cross-Play

Even with different consoles playing the same game, players can expect the core gameplay experience to remain consistent across all platforms. This is essential for fair competition in multiplayer modes. Furthermore, Call of Duty titles typically support cross-play, allowing users on different consoles and PCs to play together. Cross-play for MW3 is confirmed, letting friends team up or compete regardless of their platform choice. This enhances the social aspect of the game and helps maintain a healthy and active online environment.

Differences Between PS4 and PS5 Versions

While the core game will be the same, there will be noticeable differences between the PS4 and PS5 versions, primarily in graphics and performance. The PS5 version will leverage the console’s superior hardware, resulting in improved visuals, higher frame rates, and faster loading times.

Here’s a comparison:

Graphics: PS5 will have higher resolution textures, enhanced lighting, and better particle effects.
Performance: The PS5 version will run at higher frame rates, offering smoother gameplay, especially in fast-paced multiplayer modes.
Loading Times: Expect dramatically faster loading times on the PS5 due to its SSD.

The PS4 version will still provide a full Call of Duty experience, but it will necessarily be visually less refined compared to the PS5 version. This compromise ensures players on older hardware are not left behind, while allowing PS5 owners to enjoy the game to its fullest potential.

Pre-Order and Early Access

Pre-ordering Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III grants players access to a range of benefits, including early access to both the multiplayer beta and the single-player campaign. This is available for both digital and physical editions. The campaign early access, in particular, has been available before the full launch on all platforms, including PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 15 frequently asked questions about the platform availability of MW3:

1. Is MW3 a PS5 exclusive?

No, MW3 is not a PS5 exclusive. It is available on PS4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.

2. Can I play MW3 on my PS4?

Yes, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III is available on the PlayStation 4.

3. Will MW3 be on Xbox One?

Yes, MW3 is launching on Xbox One alongside other platforms.

4. What are the differences between the PS4 and PS5 versions of MW3?

The PS5 version will have superior graphics, higher frame rates, and faster loading times compared to the PS4 version.

5. Does MW3 support cross-play?

Yes, MW3 features cross-play, allowing players on different consoles and PC to play together.

6. Can I pre-order MW3?

Yes, you can pre-order MW3 on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.

7. What do I get for pre-ordering MW3?

Pre-ordering grants early access to both the multiplayer beta and the single-player campaign.

8. When was the multiplayer beta for MW3 available?

The multiplayer beta was available in October, with early access for PlayStation pre-orders followed by open betas.

9. When can I play the MW3 campaign?

Early access to the MW3 campaign started on November 1 for those who pre-ordered the digital version.

10. When was MW3 officially released?

The official release of MW3 was on November 10, with some variance based on time zones.

11. Is there a PS5 bundle with MW3?

Yes, there is a PlayStation 5 Slim bundle that includes MW3 at a price point matching the standalone PS5 Slim.

12. What is the price of MW3?

MW3 is priced at $70 for the standard edition, being a full-priced premium release.

13. Will MW3 have a Zombies mode?

Yes, MW3 includes a Zombies mode with unique mechanics and unlockable equipment.

14. Is the MW3 campaign worth it?

The campaign for MW3 is relatively short, about 3-4 hours, and opinions vary on its overall quality.

15. Do I need to own Modern Warfare 2 to play MW3?

Unfortunately, MW3 launches through the Call of Duty HQ which requires you to have Modern Warfare 2 installed.

Conclusion

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III is a widely available game, not limited to just the PS5. It’s launching on PS4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and PC, ensuring that a vast player base can enjoy the latest installment of the Call of Duty franchise. This multi-platform release, combined with cross-play functionality, means you’ll be able to play with friends regardless of the console they own, making for a more accessible and inclusive gaming experience. While the PS5 version offers visual and performance upgrades, the core gameplay will remain consistent across all platforms, making MW3 an exciting title for a diverse range of players.

Will MW3 be PS5 only?