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Despite its turbulent release,Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3has attracted a growing fan base within the franchise. However, skeptical players still question whether it justifies its price tag. One particular point of confusion revolves around whetherModern Warfare 3is a standalone game or if it is more of aModern Warfare 2expansion or DLC.
To shed light on the launch controversies, this guide clarifies the connection between the 2022 and 2023 installments, helping readers understandif owningMW2is necessary to playMW3.
Is MW2 Required to Play MW3?
Modern Warfare 3is a standalone game anddoes not require ownership or purchase ofMW2. The 2023 version is sold separately at full price ($70) and is not an expansion of the 2022 reboot ofCoD: Modern Warfare 2.
The confusion surroundingMW3’s release arose whencritics metaphorically condemned it as anMW2DLCdue to its unexpectedly short campaign and lack of fresh content. However, Activision, the publisher, considersMW3to be a AAA game and has committed to providing long-term support and updates.
Should MW2 Owners Still Pay for MW3?
Modern Warfare 2ownersmust purchaseModern Warfare 3separately; owning one does not grant access to the other. However, certaincontent fromMW2will transfer toMW3andWarzone, regardless of the previous title’s ownership.
Currently, there is no distinct advantage to owning bothMW2andMW3. However,MW2players who have unlocked weapons and camos prior toMW3’s release will have a head start in the first season, as theirarsenal will be accessible in the new multiplayer.
Will MW3 Multiplayer Replace MW2’s?
Following the Pre-season,Modern Warfare 3will launch its separate multiplayer mode, independent ofMW2’s multiplayer experience. The servers for the previous installment will remain active. However, the two games, along withWarzone 3.0, will have shared events and seasonal content.
It’s important to note thatMW2’s content is Cross Forward, meaning its weapons, camos, and cosmetics will carry over to the new game. However,MW3’s arsenal is not Cross Backward and won’t be available in the previous title.
Are Modern Warfare 2 and 3 Connected?
In terms of the story,MW3isthe sequel to the 2022 reboot ofModern Warfare 2. The campaign continues the narrative, featuring familiar characters such as Captain John Price, Farah Karim, Colonel Shephard, Kyle ‘Gaz’ Garrick, and John ‘Soap’ MacTavish. However, the two game’s multiplayer modes are unconnected.
