Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 (MW3) has undeniably carved its place in the hearts of many gamers, despite the rocky start it faced upon release. With a steadily growing fan base within the franchise, questions persist about its true nature – is it a standalone game, an expansion, or perhaps a DLC for Modern Warfare 2 (MW2)? In this guide, we aim to dispel the confusion surrounding MW3’s launch and clarify its connection to the 2022 reboot of CoD: Modern Warfare 2.
Is MW2 Required to Play MW3?
Contrary to initial speculations, Modern Warfare 3 is a standalone game. It does not require ownership or purchase of Modern Warfare 2. The 2023 version of MW3 is sold separately at the full price of $70 and is not considered an expansion of the 2022 MW2 reboot. Activision, the game’s publisher, stands firm in categorizing MW3 as a AAA game and has committed to providing extensive long-term support and updates for the title.
Addressing the Controversies:
The confusion surrounding MW3’s release stemmed from criticisms, often likening it to an MW2 DLC due to its unexpectedly short campaign and perceived lack of fresh content. Despite these concerns, the standalone nature of the game is clear, and Activision’s commitment to ongoing support indicates a determination to address player feedback.
Should MW2 Owners Still Pay for MW3?
For MW2 owners, purchasing Modern Warfare 3 is a separate transaction. Ownership of one title does not grant automatic access to the other. However, there is a silver lining for MW2 players as certain content from MW2 will transfer to MW3 and Warzone, irrespective of the previous title’s ownership.
While there may not be a distinct advantage to owning both MW2 and MW3, players who have unlocked weapons and camos in MW2 before MW3’s release will enjoy a head start in the first season of MW3, as their arsenal will be accessible in the new multiplayer.
Are Modern Warfare 2 and 3 Connected?
In terms of the narrative, Modern Warfare 3 serves as the sequel to the 2022 reboot of Modern Warfare 2. The campaign continues the gripping story, featuring familiar characters such as Captain John Price, Farah Karim, Colonel Shephard, Kyle ‘Gaz’ Garrick, and John ‘Soap’ MacTavish. However, it’s essential to note that the multiplayer modes of the two games are not connected.
