The latest content drop for Modern Warfare 3 is certainly the best one for the game yet, and probably one of the best Call of Duty DLC packs ever released (although Black Op 2’s Escalation Map Pack probably takes the cake there). Any argument that Activision is somehow “screwing” gamers with overpriced DLC is constantly thrown by the wayside as the publisher continues to update its games in the 12 months between releases, keeping the games as relevant and “new” as possible within that period.
The latest Modern Warfare 3 entry in Content Collection #3, which is available today for non-Premium CoD players, brings with it two new Spec Ops missions, and an insanely satisfying survival-esque mode called “Chaos”. While Spec Ops additions are always welcomed, this DLC should be downloaded for one reason and one reason only: unadulterated, highly enjoyable gameplay that is both extremely satisfying and undeniable rewarding. Put simply, Chaos is, well, chaotic; a mindless expedition through countless enemy waves, explosive killstreaks and challenging combos.
Spec Ops Missions
Spec Ops in Modern Warfare 3 has been more than satisfactory. This mode has turned into one of the more important features of the Infinity Ward CoD offerings, and thankfully gamers have had their fair share of new missions pumped out over the past few months.
The latest additions are ‘Light ‘Em Up’ and ‘Special Delivery’, both of which follow the typical Spec Ops script: short and clear objectives with a good balance of stealth and all-in-combat gameplay.
Light ‘Em Up
This mission is surprisingly long, clocking in at roughly 15 minutes. You’ll move through Makarov’s Castle on a rescue mission for a VIP, but not before taking out enemies from a helicopter flying above the mansion. Take out the bad guys, drop down to collect their intel, move into the house, get the VIP and head back to mum’s house for a cup of tea*. (NOTE: Cup of tea may or may not be warm by the time you arrive).
It’s a solid mission, but perhaps a little too predictable. Maybe that’s a good thing, as the Spec Ops missions always seem to follow the same Michael Bay-style extraction script that has helped make them such an important part of the Modern Warfare 3 experience.
Special Delivery
This mission is hard. Really hard. At least on veteran. You’re looking at a bunch of Juggernauts coming at you, aggressive enemies and tough landscapes. Thankfully you’ll have a helicopter above you taking out bad guys as well as dropping Care Packages, making completing your objective -- searching for the crew of a downed chopper -- that little bit easier. Thankfully you’ll start the mission packing a Barrett .50Cal, making those Juggernauts seem a little (just a little) less intimidating than normal.
Chaos
’Chaos’ is a real treat for Modern Warfare 3 players. This mode can be played either solo or with another player, online or offline. While it first it might seem like just another Survival mode, it’s actually so much more: the main goal is to keep your combo going for as long as possible, determined by the green combo meter that shows how long you’ve got to kill another enemy to keep the combo alive. The higher the combo, the more perks you’ll unlock. Weapons and grenade pick-ups are located throughout the maps, and the 2-minute timer per level can be extended once it reaches zero as long as you can keep your combo going: die or end the combo and the round ends.
The only downside is that only four maps are available: Resistance, Village, Underground and Dome, although they are certainly the perfect maps to play the mode on. With wide and open areas and plenty of space to move around in, the seemingly endless bombardment of enemy soldiers, Juggernauts and Dogs keep the mode fresh and energetic...pending you can stay alive long enough to keep the mode exciting.
Chaos on Resistance - 29,000,000 Score
The Final Verdict
The third content pack for Modern Warfare 3 might bring with it only two Spec Ops missions and the awesome new Chaos mode, but it adds enough fresh challenges and excitement to keep the game relevant for a little while longer while we prepare forthat game come November. Check it out now on Xbox Live for 1200 MP (free for Elite Premium members).
By Gaetano Prestia