Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 – A Roller Coaster Ride

Call of Duty Modern Warfare 3 A Smooth Experience on PS5 and Series X, but Series S Takes a Hit!

CoD Modern Warfare 3 performs smoothly on PS5 and Series X, but Series S encounters problems.

As the 20th mainline instalment in the Call of Duty series, Modern Warfare 3 has defied the odds with its accelerated development. Despite rumors of being an expansion to 2022’s Modern Warfare 2 and being in development for less than 18 months, it has manifested as a fully-fledged release. And while it may not have all the brand-new 6v6 multiplayer levels we hoped for, let’s focus on the technical aspects of the game.

The IW9 engine continues to impress, but there are some niggling issues that prevent the experience from truly shining for all users. PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X perform well, but Series S seems to take a hit compared to previous franchise entries. It’s like Series S is the little brother trying to keep up with the big boys.

MW3 doesn’t skimp on options, though it does reuse last year’s front-end menu, now called the COD HQ. Multiplayer, ground war, and the zombies mode are all laid out, and we even get a new campaGameTopic mode. The campaign boasts 14 story missions, mixing the linear, bombastic set-pieces we love with new open-world style missions. It’s a departure from the typical Call of Duty formula, giving us a taste of freedom within large sandbox areas.

But let’s be real, Modern Warfare 3 is more of an iterative release than a groundbreaking one. Shortcuts were taken to meet the November release date, resulting in a short campaGameTopic and the overuse of open-world missions to fill the adventure. Tick-boxes and detached goals often take away from the main, well-choreographed missions.

Now, let’s talk multiplayer. At launch, we get 16 team deathmatch maps, but here’s the kicker – they’re all remakes from the 2009 Modern Warfare 2. While it’s nostalgic and pleasing initially, it’s clear that there wasn’t enough time to make new maps for the launch. It’s like reliving the same old dance moves at a nostalgic party.

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But the Ground War games on three new battlefields and the Zombies mode set across a giant map, Urzikstan, provide a glimmer of hope. Plus, the IW Engine impresses with its exceptional character models, high-quality motion capture, and near photo-realistic visuals. Seriously, the beard physics on Captain Price are on point!

Lighting and volumetric effects add depth to the game, especially during the opening prison break sequence. However, when it comes to the Xbox Series S release, things get a bit rocky. The frame-rate struggles to keep a steady 60fps in campaGameTopic mode, making it feel like Series S needs a little more oomph to handle the action.

Speaking of comparisons, the IW9 Engine scales its visuals impeccably across all systems. PS5 and Series X push out an identical 4K image, while Series S targets 1440p but sacrifices some fine details. Sure, Series S tries its best, but it falls short compared to its more powerful siblings. It’s like trying to sprint a marathon against Usain Bolt.

Now, let’s dive into performance. PS5 and Series X deliver solid gameplay, with a few drop-offs here and there. Playing at 120Hz brings an extra level of fluidity and lower input lag, and the CampaGameTopic mode runs smoothly between 60-120fps. It’s like experiencing the game on steroids!

But let’s not forget about Series S. Sadly, it struggles to maintain a stable 60fps, often dropping into the 40s, especially during intense moments. Even the open sandbox missions suffer, making you feel like you’re riding a rickety roller coaster. It seems like Series S missed the optimization memo this time around.

Sure, the 120Hz mode on Series S exists, but it falls short of expectations. It tries to reach 80fps but rarely surpasses 60fps. Multiplayer modes suffer too, with drops and tearing, though simpler maps offer a more consistent experience. It’s like trying to hit a bullseye with a nerf gun.

PS5, Series X, and PC have a clear advantage with improved visibility and smoother motion at 120fps. Series S, on the other hand, struggles with range and resolution limitations. Perhaps Series S needs a boost of confidence and some performance-enhancing vitamins.

In the end, Modern Warfare 3 feels more like an expansion than a standalone game. While it’s enjoyable, it falls short on longevity and lacks new team deathmatch maps. The remade MW2 maps are fun, but it’s time for something fresh to spice up the package. Don’t worry though; the big Warzone refresh and the new Urzikstan map are on the horizon in December. Stay tuned!

Now, dear fellow gamers, what are your thoughts on Modern Warfare 3’s roller coaster ride? Are you ready to strap in and experience the nostalgic dance once again? Let us know in the comments below!