Will MW3 Have DMZ? The Uncertain Future of Extraction in Call of Duty

The question on many Call of Duty fans’ minds is whether the popular DMZ mode will make a return in Modern Warfare III (MW3). The answer, unfortunately, is a resounding no, DMZ will not be integrated into MW3. While this may be disappointing for dedicated DMZ players, it’s crucial to understand the reasons behind this decision and what the future holds for the extraction-style gameplay that many have come to love.

What Happened to DMZ?

DMZ, which debuted as part of Warzone 2.0, offered a unique experience, blending the tactical intensity of games like Escape from Tarkov with the familiar Call of Duty mechanics. Players would drop into a large map, typically Al Mazrah, scavenge for loot, complete missions, battle AI and other players, and attempt to exfiltrate with their hard-earned gear. The mode gained a dedicated following for its tension, strategic depth, and the thrill of high-stakes encounters.

However, with the release of Modern Warfare III, the focus has shifted. Activision has confirmed that DMZ will not be part of the new game. Instead, the emphasis will be on Warzone’s new map and traditional multiplayer modes. This decision signals a change in direction for the franchise, prioritizing the core Call of Duty experience and a fresh start for the battle royale mode.

Why Isn’t DMZ in MW3?

Several factors likely contributed to the decision to exclude DMZ from MW3:

• Focus on Core Modes: The primary emphasis for Modern Warfare III is on the traditional multiplayer experience, a new campaign, and the inclusion of Zombies mode. Developers likely wanted to concentrate resources on these established, core modes.
• Warzone Rebuild: With a new Warzone map on the horizon – heavily rumored to be based on Las Almas, from the Modern Warfare 2 campaign, the developers are aiming to revitalize the Battle Royale experience, possibly seeing DMZ as a separate entity that required further development that they didn’t want to commit resources to in MW3.
• Resource Allocation: Developing and maintaining a mode like DMZ, which includes AI, mission systems, and unique gameplay mechanics, requires significant resources. It’s probable that these resources are being redirected to support the new MW3 content.
• Player Base Focus: While DMZ has a dedicated following, the broader player base tends to be more engaged with core multiplayer and the Battle Royale modes. This might have influenced the decision to prioritize those modes over continuing with DMZ.
• New Titles: With the franchise’s consistent annual release cycle, there may be a plan to re-introduce the extraction gameplay style in future Call of Duty titles. However, that remains to be seen.

The Legacy of DMZ

Despite its exclusion from MW3, DMZ has left a significant impact on the Call of Duty franchise. It showcased that a unique extraction mode could thrive within the game’s ecosystem. Players enjoyed the strategic depth, risk-reward mechanics, and the constant tension of surviving in a hostile environment. While it may not be present in MW3, its innovations might influence future Call of Duty titles. The mode’s popularity certainly highlighted the appeal of extraction-style gameplay.

The Future of Extraction in Call of Duty

While DMZ won’t be in MW3, the potential for extraction-based gameplay is still there within the Call of Duty universe. It’s possible that this style of play will be revisited in a future title or a different iteration. For now, fans will need to turn their attention to the new Warzone map, the core multiplayer modes, and the Zombies experience within Modern Warfare III.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about DMZ and MW3

1. Will my progress in DMZ transfer to MW3?

No, progress from DMZ will not transfer to MW3. Since DMZ is not part of MW3, your weapons, skins, and other unlocks from the mode will not be carried over.

2. Is DMZ just Warzone 2?

DMZ was a part of Warzone 2.0 and was accessible without owning Modern Warfare 2. It functioned as a separate mode within the Warzone 2.0 ecosystem, offering a unique extraction gameplay experience.

3. Is DMZ a free mode?

Yes, DMZ was completely free to play and did not require the purchase of Modern Warfare 2. This made it a popular entry point for players looking for a unique Call of Duty experience without buying a full game.

4. Can you level up weapons in DMZ?

Yes, DMZ was an excellent mode for leveling up weapons due to the high number of AI enemies. Eliminating AI guards offered a substantial amount of weapon XP.

5. How long is a DMZ match?

A typical DMZ match lasted around 20-25 minutes. The time is limited by the gas that closes in, forcing players to exfiltrate or face elimination.

6. How does looting work in DMZ?

In DMZ, players scavenge for materials and loot from various locations. They can find weapons, ammunition, armor plates, equipment, and cash. Successful exfiltration allows them to keep items.

7. What happens if you die in DMZ?

If you die in DMZ, you lose any weapons and items you were carrying. Weapons taken off of the map become contraband weapons upon extraction. This creates a high-stakes environment where risk management is key.

8. What are contracts in DMZ?

Contracts in DMZ are missions that players can complete for rewards like cash and items. Completing contracts helps players gain an advantage and progress in each match.

9. Can you play DMZ solo?

Yes, while DMZ was primarily a trios-based mode, it allowed players to go in as a solo or duo by disabling the squad fill option.

10. Is DMZ against bots?

Yes, the AI is a primary antagonist in DMZ. Players would often encounter AI soldiers, but they would also encounter other player teams on the map.

11. What’s the goal in DMZ?

The main goal in DMZ is to survive, scavenge for materials, complete missions, earn reputation with factions, and successfully exfiltrate from the map.

12. Will DMZ make a return in the future?

There is no confirmation of DMZ returning in future Call of Duty titles. Although, given the mode’s popularity, there’s always a possibility it could be revisited in some form.

13. Is the new Warzone map in MW3 a replacement for DMZ?

The new Warzone map in MW3 is a replacement for the previous Warzone map and not a replacement for DMZ. The two modes offer different experiences, and while there may be overlap in certain gameplay elements, they are fundamentally different game modes.

14. Will my Operators from Modern Warfare II carry over to MW3?

Yes, Operators and Operator Skins unlocked in Modern Warfare II will carry forward to Modern Warfare III. This is a separate system from DMZ progression, which doesn’t carry over.

15. Can you play DMZ split-screen?

No, DMZ does not support split-screen play. This limitation was also present in Warzone 2.0, likely due to technical restrictions.

Conclusion

While the absence of DMZ in Modern Warfare III is undoubtedly disappointing for fans of the mode, the focus now shifts to the new content that MW3 has to offer. By emphasizing the core pillars of the franchise – a gripping campaign, a robust multiplayer experience, and a refreshed battle royale mode – Modern Warfare III aims to deliver a polished and engaging experience for players. Although DMZ won’t be present, its innovations and impact on the Call of Duty franchise may very well influence future iterations of the series.