The undead have always been a captivating threat, and few things have captivated gamers quite like the endless waves of zombies in the Call of Duty franchise. For years, players have battled hordes, solved cryptic puzzles, and forged friendships (and rivalries) in the pursuit of survival. Black Ops 3, specifically, cemented its place as a titan in the Zombies universe, thanks to its innovative gameplay and a collection of maps that continue to draw players back into the fight. This article serves as your guide to the Black Ops 3 Zombie experience, exploring its core mechanics and evaluating the distinct landscapes where the fight against the undead rages on. Prepare for a deep dive into the maps that defined a generation of zombie slayers.
Gameplay Foundations of Black Ops 3 Zombies
Black Ops 3 completely revamped the established framework of the zombie experience, introducing a collection of features that would define the experience for years. The core gameplay loop of navigating a map, surviving waves, unlocking areas, and attempting to complete the main Easter Egg became a mainstay, but several fresh elements spiced up the formula.
The Reign of Gobblegums
The addition of Gobblegums fundamentally altered the flow of each match. These limited-use, consumable power-ups provided a range of effects, from simple buffs (like faster reload speeds) to game-altering abilities (like teleportation or instant revival). Players activated these through the Gobblegum machine, adding a layer of gambling and strategy as they decided which power-ups to utilize. The variety offered by Gobblegums added an additional layer of strategic depth to each game.
Specialist Weapons: Unleashing Destruction
For the first time in a Call of Duty Zombies game, players could choose a “Specialist” weapon. At the start of each match, the player was given the option to pick one of the various weapons. These weapons would change the way you played the game, adding a degree of customization and providing players with an advantage in specific situations. Each weapon had a unique ability, and the player would have to strategically build up their special meter to use the weapon. They provided an extra layer of depth and strategic advantage in surviving the undead hordes.
Weapon Customization
Black Ops 3 built upon previous weapon customization efforts, giving players more flexibility and control over their arsenal. Players could now attach various attachments, camos, and optic sights to their weapons, transforming them into a specialized tool for surviving the onslaught of the undead. This level of customization played a key role in the overall appeal of the mode.
The Perks System
The classic perks system from previous installments were reimagined with fresh layouts and mechanics. The original perks returned with a few new ones added to the mix.
Basic Zombie Mechanics
Regardless of the map, the fundamental rules of survival remained consistent. Players purchase weapons, navigate the map, and fend off the ever-increasing waves of the undead. The objective has always been to survive as long as possible, unlocking secrets along the way. The mechanics were streamlined for ease of play, allowing players to focus on the core experience: killing zombies.
A Deep Dive into the Maps of Undead Mayhem
Black Ops 3 delivered a diverse selection of maps, each offering a unique environment, distinct gameplay challenges, and a captivating storyline.
The Dark Secrets of Shadows of Evil
Set in the fictional 1940s metropolis of Morg City, Shadows of Evil ushered players into a world of noir-inspired mystery and monstrous horror. The map introduced four protagonists – a boxer, a femme fatale, a magician, and a detective – all bound by a dark destiny. The map presented players with intricate rituals, the formidable presence of the Margwa (a grotesque three-headed beast), and the need to wield the specialized “beast” mode. The atmosphere, heavy with shadows and secrets, made it a thrilling experience.
Setting and Atmosphere
The map presented a vibrant yet dark setting with a gritty feel. From the crowded streets to the neon-lit buildings, everything about Morg City conveyed an unsettling mood.
Gameplay Mechanics and Challenges
The players had to go through the main objective of completing the rituals. Completing these rituals was a key step in the Easter Egg. The Margwa, a multi-headed beast that would often appear in waves, added a new dimension of terror. The beast mode was the key element to this map.
Weapons and Equipment
The map featured a range of classic and innovative weapons, including the powerful swords which aided players in their fight against the undead. Players could utilize the PaP (Pack-a-Punch) machine to upgrade their weapons for increased firepower.
Overall Impression
Shadows of Evil remains a standout launch map. It has a solid, challenging gameplay loop, a unique setting, and an engaging story.
The Remastered Classic: The Giant
While Shadows of Evil brought a fresh story, The Giant, a remake of the fan-favorite Der Riese, was a welcome addition. Returning to the original setting of the Nazi-occupied research facility, The Giant saw the original cast returning to fight off the undead in a nostalgic experience.
Setting and Atmosphere
The Giant retained the atmospheric aesthetic of its predecessor, with its claustrophobic corridors and decaying equipment.
Gameplay Mechanics and Challenges
The Giant maintained the original’s core mechanics, including the Pack-a-Punch machine and teleporters. This allowed players to focus on refining their strategies.
Weapons and Equipment
Players could once again acquire classic weaponry as they fought off the undead. The map provided the opportunity to upgrade weapons through the PaP.
Overall Impression
The Giant was a well-crafted remake, providing players with a familiar, yet updated experience.
Adventure in Zetsubou No Shima
Zetsubou No Shima took players to a remote, tropical island, where they faced new horrors. The players fought to survive on an island filled with decaying buildings, vast plant life, and mutated creatures.
Setting and Atmosphere
The map presented a beautiful, yet horrifying environment. With plant life and decaying buildings, the island’s atmosphere was unique.
Gameplay Mechanics and Challenges
The map introduced many new mechanics, like the plant traps and the need for proper water management. These mechanics were essential for survival.
Weapons and Equipment
The map featured a range of weapons, as well as specialized equipment like the KT-4, which was necessary for completing the Easter Egg.
Overall Impression
Zetsubou No Shima offered a challenging and atmospheric experience, but some of its mechanics did make it more difficult for players to learn.
Confrontation in Gorod Krovi
Gorod Krovi, a map set within a war-torn, alternate-history Stalingrad, threw players into the chaos of a battle between the undead and the remnants of the Soviet Red Army.
Setting and Atmosphere
The map was inspired by the architecture and atmosphere of a war-torn Stalingrad.
Gameplay Mechanics and Challenges
Gorod Krovi challenged players with brutal combat against dragons and hordes of zombies. The map featured a complex boss fight and complex puzzles.
Weapons and Equipment
This map featured a range of weapons, along with several special weapons.
Overall Impression
This map offered a complex and rewarding experience with its engaging setting, intense battles, and complex mechanics.
Revelations: The Grand Finale
Revelations served as a culmination of the storyline, bringing all the previously established maps and timelines together. Players traveled between different locations, including areas from previous maps.
Setting and Atmosphere
The map brought together locations from the entire storyline, creating a memorable experience.
Gameplay Mechanics and Challenges
The map presented unique challenges, and it was meant to be a culmination of everything that came before.
Weapons and Equipment
Players could choose from a wide range of weapons.
Overall Impression
Revelations serves as a proper end for the original storyline, uniting all the previous maps in a grand finale.
Comparing and Ranking the Undead Labyrinths
Each map has its strengths and weaknesses. Shadows of Evil, with its complex setting and intricate gameplay, sets the standard for what a new map can accomplish. The Giant is great because of its simplicity. The other maps provide a distinct experience.
Each map has a unique appeal. From the noir-inspired atmosphere of Shadows of Evil to the war-torn setting of Gorod Krovi.
Replayability, Easter Eggs, and map design are important things that can separate the maps from each other.
The Enduring Legacy of Black Ops 3 Zombies
Black Ops 3’s Zombies mode has left an enduring mark on gaming history. Its innovative features, engaging maps, and intricate storylines continue to captivate players. The gameplay elements and the quality of the map designs have ensured that players will return to this game for years to come.
Black Ops 3’s mode influenced the gameplay of other games.
Players remain engaged and interested in this mode.
In Conclusion
Black Ops 3 presented an exceptional chapter in the history of the Zombies franchise. From the mysterious streets of Morg City to the battle-scarred landscapes of Gorod Krovi, the game’s maps offered players a range of unique experiences. The gameplay mechanics added to the overall appeal, and the community still plays the mode to this day. If you’re seeking an immersive and challenging zombie experience, Black Ops 3 is a title that is hard to overlook. Gather your friends, choose your Gobblegums, and prepare to fight off the endless hordes. The apocalypse awaits!
