How MW3 Zombies Could Have Benefitted from a DMZ-Inspired Game Mode

Fans of Call of Duty may have overlooked a DMZ-inspired mode for MW3 Zombies. According to a recent report from @MargwaNetwork on X, the developers had more ambitious plans for their open-world Zombie mode, but unfortunately, this content was ultimately cut. So, what did players miss out on? A PvPvE mode for Modern Warfare 3 Zombies.

MW3 Zombies is said to have had a DMZ-like mode in development

MargwaNetwork, a well-known source for Call of Duty information, revealed that MW3 Zombies included a PvPvE mode similar to DMZ, which was later removed during development. For those unfamiliar with these terms, a PvPvE game mode allows players to compete against not only other players but also various AI opponents, in this case, zombies and mercenaries.

This mode would have closely mirrored the DMZ mechanics found in Modern Warfare 2 (2022), where players pitted themselves against each other for resources while also facing AI enemies in intense boss battles. Examining the current state of MW3 Zombies indicates that it shares many features with DMZ, although the PvP component is absent.

In MWZ, players are tasked with gathering resources, battling bosses, and engaging with hordes of zombies and mercenaries. The fundamental difference from the DMZ model lies in the fact that players do not compete against each other, making them extraction-based modes in essence.

Reportedly, the game mode envisioned for MW3 Zombies would have been a direct counterpart to DMZ, only swapping human adversaries for zombies.

This DMZ-like mode was also said to feature contracts for players to complete, similar to Bounty Contracts, where players would hunt down enemies to gain additional XP and in-game currency.

While this concept is intriguing, many fans expressed relief that this mode did not make it into the final version of the game. Several community members pointed out that a Zombies mode should remain focused on PvE gameplay.

The community was quick to respond to this news and expressed gratitude that the DMZ-like mode was ultimately scrapped. Fans argue that the Zombies experience has always been centered on PvE interactions. The Call of Duty franchise typically employs a triple threat formula, showcasing three core modes: a single-player story Campaign, a PvP Multiplayer mode, and a Co-Op PvE mode featuring Zombies, enabling players to collaborate against AI foes.

The inclusion of a DMZ-like mode in MW3 Zombies would have disrupted this essential gameplay experience, diminishing the overall enjoyment of the triple threat package.

Despite missing out on this unique mode, it seems that Sledgehammer Games made the right choice here. This sentiment is reflected in the positive reception of MW3 Zombies, with many Call of Duty enthusiasts considering it the standout feature of the Modern Warfare 3 lineup.

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