Call of Duty Modern Zombies modes have experienced a mixed bag of successes and struggles. The shift from the map pack-focused model to a live service approach brought changes in dynamics, with each iteration offering unique experiences. From Black Ops Cold War’s solid performance to the critically panned Vanguard Zombies and the love-it-or-hate-it open-world venture of Modern Warfare 3 Zombies, one common struggle persists the issue of seasonal content inconsistency.
The shift in the Call of Duty franchise’s focus has left the Zombies mode in a state of inconsistency. In the past, players knew exactly when to expect new maps, but with the advent of the live service model, the certainty has vanished. The ambiguity surrounding whether a season will bring a significant map update or be filled with “filler” content is a predicament for players. The absence of a clear pattern for post-launch Zombies updates has become a pressing concern.
Analyzing Modern Warfare 3 Zombies Mode: A Case of Inconsistency:
Examining the seasonal updates of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 Zombies reveals a pattern of inconsistency. Season 1 commenced strongly with the introduction of Dark Aether Rifts, a compelling story mission, and new elements. However, Season 2 appears as a significant step-down, offering minimal updates, including another Dark Aether Rift, a story mission, and a Warlord, leaving fans desiring a new map.
This inconsistency has become synonymous with recent CoD Zombies modes. Treyarch, the developer, faces the challenge of navigating the live service model, where constant updates are expected. Despite Zombies not being initially designed for such frequent updates, players find it hard to accept small Zombies sections in roadmaps and season breakdowns. It has led to the perception that Zombies is treated as a minor third game mode rather than a substantial experience.
The Ideal Scenario for Call of Duty 2024:
The upcoming release, Call of Duty 2024, provides an opportunity to rectify this situation. The key lies in establishing a consistent flow for post-launch Zombies content. The unpredictability of whether a season will bring substantial content or not needs addressing. Ideally, the game should follow a reliable cadence for updates, keeping players engaged throughout the season.
Call of Duty’s newer Zombies modes all share the same major problem, and Treyarch should aim to rectify it with its 2024 release. https://t.co/FrBsIVYtrW
— Game Rant (@GameRant) February 2, 2024
- Predictable Updates and Cadence:
- Treyarch should outline a clear plan, ensuring that round-based maps and Outbreak content are released predictably.
- Establishing a reliable cadence could involve launching each new season with a fresh round-based map, followed by midseason updates introducing new Outbreak content and side Easter eggs.
- Avoiding Lengthy Downtime:
- To maintain player engagement, Treyarch must steer clear of extended periods without meaningful content releases.
- Whether through round-based maps or Outbreak content, players should experience a continuous stream of meaningful updates, reducing downtime.
- Creating a Clear Plan:
- Call of Duty 2024 should prioritize the creation of a clear plan, where Treyarch alternates between round-based releases and significant Outbreak content.
- Players should not be left guessing the quality of a Zombies season; a well-defined plan ensures consistency and quality updates.
- Balancing Round-Based Maps and Outbreak Content:
- Striking a balance between round-based maps and Outbreak content is crucial for player satisfaction.
- Ensuring that each new season brings fresh and exciting content maintains the interest of the player base.
Engagement is paramount in the live service model, and Zombies should not be an exception. Treyarch must acknowledge the current situation and work towards creating an environment where players always have something meaningful to look forward to. Whether through consistent round-based releases, engaging Outbreak content, or supplementary features, the goal is to keep the Zombies mode vibrant and central to the overall Call of Duty experience.
Conclusion
Call of Duty 2024 has the opportunity to address and rectify the ongoing Zombies modes’ seasonal content inconsistency. By prioritizing a consistent and engaging approach to post-launch updates, Treyarch can establish Zombies as a robust and integral part of the Call of Duty franchise in the live service era. The key lies in providing players with a clear plan, predictable updates, and a well-defined cadence for content releases, ensuring that every season brings excitement and meaningful additions to the world of Zombies.
