Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 (MW3) throws you into a gritty, fast-paced world of global warfare. But within that chaos lies a strategic playground – the multiplayer maps. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the franchise, understanding these maps is crucial for dominating the competition.
This guide delves into everything you need to know about MW3’s diverse multiplayer maps, including their origins, gameplay styles they favour, and some strategic tips to conquer each one.
A Blend of New and Classic: MW3’s Map Landscape
MW3 boasts a compelling mix of new and classic maps. At launch, players were greeted with 16 core maps, each meticulously crafted for intense 6v6 battles. These were further complemented by four larger environments catering to large-scale battles in Ground War, Invasion, and the colossal War Mode.
But here’s the twist: MW3 didn’t entirely abandon nostalgia. Building upon the success of its predecessor, MW2, it included eight remastered “Carry Forward” maps from that game. This blend of fresh experiences and fan favourites offered something for everyone.
Core Maps: Where Fast-Paced Action Reigns Supreme
The core maps in MW3 are designed for frenetic action and strategic manoeuvring. They cater to various play styles, from run-and-gun assaults to calculated flanking maneuvers. Let’s explore some of the most popular ones:
- Afghan (New): A war-torn Afghan village provides a close-quarters combat experience. Expect intense firefights within ruined buildings and narrow alleyways.
- Derail (New): A train depot ravaged by a terrorist attack. This map offers a good mix of open areas and tight corridors, ideal for both long-range and close-combat engagements.
- Estate (New): A luxurious Parisian mansion turned into a battlefield. The intricate layout, with its multiple floors and flanking routes, rewards players who utilize verticality.
- Favela (New): A densely populated Brazilian slum, perfect for aggressive gameplay. Mastering the network of rooftops and tight corners is key to success.
- Highrise (New): A towering skyscraper complex in New York City. This map offers long sightlines and opportunities for sniping, but close-quarter combat reigns supreme in the interior sections.
- Invasion (New): A European city under siege by Russian forces. This large-scale map provides a taste of vehicular warfare with tanks and jeeps available alongside traditional infantry combat.
- Quarry (New): An abandoned industrial quarry transformed into a battleground. The open areas and scattered buildings encourage the strategic use of cover and grenades.
These are just a few examples, and each core map offers a unique tactical experience.
Carry Forward Maps: A Blast from the Past, Remastered for Modern Warfare
The inclusion of eight “Carry Forward” maps from MW2 was a welcome addition for many players. These remastered maps brought back the nostalgia of MW2 while benefiting from graphical and gameplay tweaks for MW3. Here are some of the returning classics:
- Greenburgh Hotel (MW2): A luxurious ski resort transformed into a battleground. This map offers a good mix of close-quarters combat and long-range engagements.
- Crown Raceway (MW2): An abandoned racetrack perfect for fast-paced run-and-gun action. Mastering the use of cover and flanking routes is crucial here.
- Dome (MW2): A geodesic dome in the Arabian desert. This map features a unique layout with multiple levels and open areas, encouraging a variety of playstyles.
- Farm 18 (MW2): A fictional European farmhouse with a sprawling layout. This map offers opportunities for both long-range and close-quarter combat, with flanking routes playing a significant role.
- Mercado Las Almas (MW2): A bustling marketplace in Mexico. The tight corridors and open plazas create a chaotic and fast-paced combat environment.
- Rust (MW2): A small, oil processing platform in the middle of the ocean. This map is notorious for its intense close-quarters combat and lack of cover.
- Shipment (MW2): Arguably the most iconic map from MW2, Shipment is an incredibly small shipping container yard known for its frenetic, chaotic gameplay.
- Shoot House (MW2): A close-quarters combat map set in a warehouse complex. This map is ideal for players who prefer aggressive run-and-gun tactics.
These remastered maps provided a familiar yet slightly different experience for MW2 veterans while offering newcomers a taste of the classic MW2 gameplay.
FAQs
Q: How many multiplayer maps are there in MW3?
A: MW3 boasts a total of 20+ multiplayer maps. This includes all-new maps introduced in MW3 and classic maps “carried forward” from the previous title, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 (MW2).
Q: What are the names of the original MW3 maps?
A: Here’s a list of the new maps introduced in MW3:
- Afghan
- Derail
- Estate
- Favela
- Highrise
- Invasion
- Karachi
- Quarry
- Rundown
- Scrapyard
- Skidrow
- Sub Base
- Terminal
- Underpass
- Wasteland
Q: Which MW2 maps were carried forward to MW3?
A: Eight fan-favourite maps from MW2 made a triumphant return in MW3 with a fresh coat of paint and some minor adjustments for gameplay balance. These maps are:
- Greenburgh Hotel
- Crown Raceway
- Dome
- Farm 18
- Mercado Las Almas
- Rust
- Shipment
- Shoot House
Q: Are there different sizes for MW3 maps?
A: Yes, MW3 offers maps designed for various player counts and game modes. There are maps ideal for classic 6v6 battles, while others cater to larger-scale battles in the Ground War game mode.
Q: Where can I find a detailed breakdown of each MW3 map?
A: Numerous resources online offer comprehensive guides on each MW3 map. These guides typically include:
- The map layout and key landmarks
- Popular strategies and flanking routes
- Weapon recommendations for success on the map
Q: Are there any resources to help me learn the MW3 maps before playing online?
A: Absolutely! Here are a couple of helpful options:
- Interactive Map Websites: Some websites allow you to explore detailed, interactive versions of the MW3 maps. This is a fantastic way to familiarize yourself with the layout before diving into online matches.
- YouTube Videos: Many YouTubers create content specifically focused on MW3 maps. These videos often showcase gameplay footage with commentary highlighting strategies and tactics for each map.
Q: What are some of the most popular MW3 maps?
A: This can be subjective, but some maps consistently rank high in terms of player favourites. Here are a few to keep an eye out for:
- Rust: This small, fast-paced map is a haven for run-and-gun action.
- Shipment: Another compact map is known for its frenetic gameplay and constant firefights.
- Terminal: This airport-based map offers a good mix of close-quarters combat and long-range engagements.
- Favela: A densely packed urban environment with plenty of verticality for strategic movement.
- Highrise: A skyscraper complex that provides opportunities for both close-up and long-range battles.
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