As the launch of Modern Warfare 3 approaches, Warzone players can anticipate a slew of significant adjustments, including a fresh map, revamped perks and loadouts, and various quality-of-life enhancements. Here's a comprehensive rundown of what we know so far.
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Warzone, which made a massive splash upon its 2020 debut but has seen a decline in popularity over time, especially with the arrival of Warzone 2 in 2022, will see substantial changes this year as it transitions to Modern Warfare 3.
New Warzone Map: Urzikstan
Urzikstan, the new Warzone map, is set to connect the 11 Points of Interest (POIs) more seamlessly. It promises improved rotation and cover, drawing inspiration from the nostalgia-inducing elements that have players eagerly awaiting Modern Warfare 3.
Urzikstan will replace Al Mazrah as the primary map in Warzone, alongside the smaller Resurgence maps, Ashika Island and Vondel.
Warzone Movement in MW3
Warzone movement will mimic that of Modern Warfare 3, with expectations of slightly faster and more fluid gameplay compared to its predecessor. It's a nod to the beloved movement mechanics of Modern Warfare (2019), which many players believe increase the skill gap and enhance overall enjoyment.
Warzone Maps and Modes in MW3
Warzone will feature Urzikstan as the primary battle royale map, along with Ashika Island and Vondel from the current Warzone. Season 1 is expected to offer battle royale, resurgence, and Plunder modes.
Perk and Loadout Changes
The current perk and loadout system will persist after Modern Warfare 3 launches, albeit with some minor adjustments. Notably, Combat Scout will return, and Ghost will require movement for activation. Three new perks will also be introduced:
- Shrouded: Drops a smoke grenade when downed.
- Irradiated: Increases movement speed and reduces gas damage.
- Resolute: Enhances movement when damaged.
Gameplay Tweaks
Warzone will see the addition of new tacticals, lethals, and killstreaks from Modern Warfare 3. The Big Game Bounty contract makes a comeback. Mobility changes include the introduction of Ziplines for enhanced rotation and redeploy drones with expanded movement options.
A controllable train will feature in Warzone, offering additional mobility options with handbrake, reverse, and full-speed capabilities.
New Gulag
A new Gulag awaits in Warzone, featuring a 1v1 format with a straightforward 3-lane layout. There will also be a night-vision version, with a random chance of experiencing either the day or night-time Gulag.
The Nuke Returns
Yes, the nuke will return in the new Warzone iteration after the Modern Warfare 3 integration. However, the Champion's Quest will function differently. In the new game, eliminating and team wiping the Champions Quest contract holders will drop the contract, which can be stolen, allowing players to earn a nuke without securing 5 consecutive match wins.
Quality-of-Life Enhancements
Players can expect the continuation of the current health system, with HP extended to 150. Pacing will be faster, with adjustments to circle closing times and sizes.
Players will gain the ability to manually equip Gas Masks, providing more control over dealing with the gas. Swimming will now arm players with a pistol, boosting their survivability in aquatic situations.
Contracts will see improvements, offering different rewards and making them easier to locate, addressing a common complaint following the Warzone 2 integration.
