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Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III
Item: Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresAdventure, Action, Shooter, Single Player, Multiplayer, First Person Perspective

AvailableNov 10, 2023

PlatformPC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, PlayStation 5

DeveloperSledgehammer Games

Overview

The game brings "open combat, " offering players more choices in approaching the single-player missions. Makarov returns as the chief villain of the new campaign. The newly introduced Carry Forward system will let players keep their progression and inventory from Modern Warfare II. Multiplayer fans can expect 16 maps at the launch and at least 12 coming later. Zombies mode will also return and should offer the largest zombie map to date.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III faces heavy criticism for its disjointed, shallow campaign that lacks depth and memorable moments. While some praise its familiar characters and visual flair, the short runtime (3-4 hours) and thin narrative fail to engage players, leaving both newcomers and fans disappointed. Overall, the game is seen as one of the weakest entries in the series, marked by recycled elements and an unsatisfactory conclusion.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

35%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

65%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III has garnered a few positive remarks amidst a sea of criticism. Some reviewers, like MondoXbox, appreciate the continuation of the rebooted narrative, highlighting the familiar presence of iconic characters such as Captain Price and his team as they face off against the notorious villain, Vladimir Makarov. Additionally, CGMagazine notes that the campaign offers a new story that builds on the previous installment, suggesting that there are elements of innovation, albeit limited. The game’s visual presentation and action sequences also received some praise, with a few critics acknowledging that the missions, while flawed, still provide moments of excitement. However, the overwhelming sentiment among critics is decidedly negative. Many reviewers, including PCGamesN and Metro GameCentral, describe the campaign as disjointed and lacking depth, with a thin narrative that fails to engage players. The campaign's short runtime, often cited as lasting only three to four hours, has been criticized for its rushed pacing and lack of meaningful character development, particularly for Makarov, who is portrayed as a less threatening antagonist compared to previous games. Critics such as Twinfinite and VideoGamer emphasize the campaign's failure to deliver memorable moments or a satisfying conclusion, leading to feelings of confusion and disappointment. The lack of cohesive storytelling and the reliance on recycled elements from prior games have left many feeling that this installment is a significant step backward for the franchise. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III's story is one of the weakest entries in the series, characterized by its generic and forgettable narrative. Reviewers like IGN Spain and Game Rant echo the sentiment that the campaign feels more like an obligation than a compelling standalone experience. The game appears to alienate both newcomers and long-time fans, as it fails to provide a coherent and engaging narrative, leaving many feeling cheated by its abrupt and unsatisfactory conclusion. As a result, the campaign's lack of depth, character development, and engaging missions has led to a predominantly negative reception, marking a disappointing chapter in the Call of Duty franchise.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III impresses with precise gunplay and an engaging multiplayer experience, but critics slam its lack of innovation and reliance on recycled content. While improvements in movement and new mechanics add some flair, the uninspired campaign and frustrating AI issues leave many feeling underwhelmed. Overall, it’s a mixed bag—some fun elements overshadowed by disappointment in execution.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

23%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

58%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

18%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

In analyzing the gameplay of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III, several critics have highlighted notable positives. Many reviewers praised the gunplay as being precise and satisfying, with impactful sound design that enhances the overall experience (e.g., GGRecon and God is a Geek). The multiplayer mode has been particularly well-received, with several critics, including Pure Xbox and Multiplayer.it, noting its fast-paced action and enjoyable mechanics. Critics like Generación Xbox and Destructoid also acknowledged improvements in movement fluidity, making gameplay feel more dynamic and responsive compared to previous titles. Additionally, some critics appreciated the introduction of new features such as Tactical Stance and slide-cancel mechanics, which added depth to the gameplay (Jeuxvideo.com and Multiplayer.it). Despite these positives, a significant number of critics expressed dissatisfaction with various aspects of the gameplay. Many noted a lack of innovation, with gameplay feeling repetitive and overly reliant on familiar mechanics and maps from previous titles (PLAY! Zine and Gameblog.fr). The Open Combat missions received considerable criticism for their execution, often described as uninspired and lacking meaningful player agency (PCGamesN and Eurogamer). Critics like Worth Playing and The Enemy pointed out issues with enemy AI and mission structure, leading to a frustrating experience that detracts from the overall enjoyment. The campaign's brevity and the feeling of rushed design were also common points of contention, with some reviewers noting that the missions lacked memorable moments (Invers and IGN Spain). Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the gameplay of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III is mixed. While there are commendable elements, particularly in the multiplayer experience and gunplay, the overwhelming sentiment leans towards disappointment due to the game's lack of innovation and reliance on recycled content. Critics such as XGN and Atomix encapsulated the frustrations felt by many, emphasizing that the gameplay feels more like a rehash of past entries rather than a fresh take on the franchise. As a result, while some aspects of the game are enjoyable, the overall execution leaves much to be desired, leading to a perception that Modern Warfare III may not meet the expectations of both longtime fans and newcomers to the series.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III dazzles with stunning visuals and impressive animations, earning praise for its remastered maps and cinematic quality. However, critics slam the game for relying on recycled assets and an outdated engine, resulting in a lack of originality and minimal graphical advancements. While production values are high, many feel it fails to deliver the fresh experience expected from the franchise, creating a mixed reception overall.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

54%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

40%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III have garnered a range of opinions, with several critics praising the game's impressive visuals. Reviewers like Checkpoint Gaming and TrueAchievements highlighted the game's gorgeous graphics and excellent animations, contributing positively to the overall experience. Critics from GamePro Germany and IGN Italia noted the high-quality visuals, particularly in the remastered maps, with IGN Italia emphasizing the impressive lighting and explosion effects. Additionally, some critics, such as Generación Xbox and Digital Trends, pointed out the cinematic quality and attention to detail in both campaign and multiplayer modes, showcasing the game's ability to deliver a visually appealing experience. However, despite these positives, many reviewers expressed significant concerns regarding the game's visual design. Critics like But Why Tho? and Gamer.no pointed out the heavy reliance on recycled assets and nostalgia, which detracts from the freshness of the experience. Softpedia and COGconnected criticized the outdated graphical engine and bland visual design, while Gameblog.fr mentioned that flashy skins detracted from immersion. Furthermore, reviewers such as Everyeye.it and PLAY! Zine noted minimal improvements in graphics compared to previous entries, indicating a lack of innovation in the visual department. This sentiment was echoed by multiple critics who felt that many maps felt rehashed and lacked the impactful art direction of earlier titles. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests a mixed reception regarding the graphics and visual design of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III. While there are commendations for the stunning visuals and well-executed remastered maps, a significant number of reviewers lament the lack of originality and the recycling of content from previous games. Critics like Vgames and Eurogamer highlighted the game's high production values but also noted that the missions and overall design did not match the quality expected from the franchise. This dichotomy reflects a broader sentiment that, while Modern Warfare III has the potential for impressive visuals, it ultimately falls short in delivering a fresh and innovative visual experience.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III's sound design and music have been praised for their immersive quality and powerful audio effects, enhancing player experience. Critics highlight top-notch weapon sounds and voice acting, with some noting the impressive Spanish localization. However, there are criticisms of poor voice acting, average sound design in some areas, and inconsistencies in sound mixing, particularly in multiplayer. Overall, while the audio excels in many ways, notable flaws suggest there's room for improvement in future updates.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

60%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

34%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III have received a largely positive reception from critics, highlighting the game's audio as a significant strength. Reviewers like Game Rant and Gamereactor Finland praised the immersive quality of the sound design, noting the powerful weapon and explosion sounds that enhance the overall experience. TrueAchievements described the sound design as "unrivaled," further emphasizing its role in deepening player immersion. Other critics, such as Atomix and Digital Chumps, echoed these sentiments, describing the sound design as top-notch and consistent with the franchise's high standards. The attention to detail, particularly in gun sounds and voice acting, has been frequently mentioned, with Generación Xbox highlighting the effective synchronization of high-quality voice acting in Spanish, which adds to the game's overall appeal. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, some critics have pointed out notable shortcomings in the sound design and music. Movies Games and Tech criticized the voice acting as poor, while GamePro Germany described the sound design as average, citing weak gun sounds and unimpressive music that fails to match the original trilogy's standards. Digital Trends mentioned issues with distant footsteps and annoying prompts, suggesting that not all aspects of the audio experience were polished. Additionally, PlaySense pointed out flaws in sound design, such as footsteps being heard randomly or too late, which detracts from the immersive experience that many others praised. These criticisms indicate that while the sound design has strong elements, it is not without its flaws. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III excels in sound design, particularly in terms of weapon effects and immersive audio experiences. However, there are notable criticisms regarding voice acting quality and certain inconsistencies in sound mixing, especially in multiplayer modes. Critics like XboxAddict and Impulsegamer recognized the audio elements as contributing positively to the game's atmosphere, while others like Forbes and GamePro Germany provided a more tempered view, indicating that the sound design, while generally strong, does have areas for improvement. This blend of praise and critique suggests that while the game succeeds in many audio aspects, there is room for refinement in future iterations.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

TLDR: Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III's voice acting receives praise for immersive performances and iconic characters, notably Captain Price, Gaz, and Soap. Critics highlight the cast's talent, enhancing the game's cinematic feel. However, many also criticize the weak script and lack of character depth, especially for the antagonist, leading to mixed reviews. While the performances shine, they are often undermined by dialogue that fails to engage, leaving a divided opinion on the overall impact on the game's narrative.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

26%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

58%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

16%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III has garnered a mix of praise from several critics, highlighting its immersive qualities and the performances of the cast. For instance, Gamereactor Finland commends the natural voice acting as part of an overall immersive sound design, while Checkpoint Gaming emphasizes that the outstanding voice acting significantly enhances the game's immersive experience. Critics like Digital Chumps and Inverse also note the strong performances, contributing to the cinematic quality of the game and the memorable personalities of the characters. The return of iconic characters such as Captain Price, Gaz, and Soap has been well-received, with Noisy Pixel specifically praising their top-notch voice acting, which resonates with long-time fans of the franchise. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the voice acting, primarily focused on the script and character development. GAMES.CH points out that the antagonist's performance is undermined by weak dialogue and a lack of character depth, which fails to compare favorably with the original Makarov. Similarly, Movies Games and Tech and PLAY! Zine express dissatisfaction, labeling the voice acting as poor and contributing to an overall negative experience. Critics like Digital Trends and Press Start Australia echo these sentiments, suggesting that while the voice cast is talented, they are stifled by a script that lacks the necessary gravitas, leading to a lack of engagement with the story. Overall, the consensus among critics presents a divided view on the voice acting in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III. While many reviewers, such as Generación Xbox and TechRadar Gaming, highlight the quality of the voice performances as a saving grace for the campaign, others, including GAMES.CH and PLAY! Zine, express disappointment in the dialogue and character development. This dichotomy suggests that while the voice acting has its strengths, particularly in terms of performance, it is ultimately hampered by a script that fails to fully realize the potential of its characters, leaving critics with mixed feelings about its overall impact on the game's narrative experience.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III shines on Xbox Series X and PS5 with smooth gameplay and stable performance, but faces criticism for bugs, server issues, and chaotic interfaces across all platforms. While the game shows promise, significant technical flaws, particularly in multiplayer and Zombies mode, suggest the need for urgent updates to improve the user experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

23%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

47%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

30%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III varies across platforms, with notable strengths particularly on the Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5. Critics like Hey Poor Player and Movies Games and Tech praised the Xbox Series X version for its smooth gameplay experience, highlighting the absence of major technical issues. Similarly, IGN Italia and Noisy Pixel reported stable frame rates and smooth performance on the PS5, with some reviewers noting improvements over previous iterations. The PC version also received commendations, particularly from God is a Geek and The Games Machine, who noted stable performance and good frame rates, suggesting a generally solid technical foundation. However, several criticisms emerged regarding technical performance across all platforms. On the Xbox Series X, COGconnected and Gamereactor UK pointed out issues such as broken split-screen modes, poor server performance, and a chaotic user interface. On the PS5, critics like Hardcore Gamer and Shacknews highlighted numerous bugs and glitches that detracted from the gameplay experience, including problems with custom loadouts and audio glitches. The PC version faced its share of challenges, with reviews from Eurogamer Poland and GamingBolt mentioning matchmaking issues, lag, and bugs in the Zombies mode, which significantly impacted the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a mixed reception regarding the technical performance of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III across all platforms. While many reviewers acknowledged the game's strong performance and stability, especially on the PS5 and Xbox Series X, persistent bugs and server issues were frequently cited as detractors. Critics like Forbes and Ragequit.gr emphasized that while improvements are being made, significant technical shortcomings remain, particularly in multiplayer modes and the Zombies experience. This blend of praise and criticism suggests that while the game has a solid foundation, further updates and fixes are necessary to enhance the overall user experience.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III boasts strong multiplayer and Zombies modes, praised for nostalgia and engaging gameplay. However, critics largely agree the campaign is dull and forgettable, with repetitive gameplay and recycled content undermining long-term replay value. While some elements appeal to completionists, the overall sentiment is disappointment, suggesting many players may not return after their first playthrough.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

16%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

59%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

26%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The opinions regarding the replay value of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III present a mixed bag, with several critics highlighting the strengths of the multiplayer and Zombies modes. Critics like NME and Forbes praise the multiplayer experience as one of the best in the franchise, emphasizing its well-paced matches, balanced weaponry, and nostalgic maps from Modern Warfare 2. IGN France also notes that the Zombies mode offers high replay value due to its varied objectives and engaging structure, while Game Rant points out the open-world Zombies mode as a significant draw for players looking to level up weapons. Additionally, some critics, such as Hobby Consolas and GameCritics, mention that the campaign has elements that can encourage replayability, like challenges and collectibles, which may appeal to completionists. However, the overwhelming sentiment among critics is that the game suffers from a lack of replay value, particularly regarding the campaign and certain aspects of the multiplayer. Press Start Australia, GamePro Germany, and Digital Trends all express disappointment in the campaign's structure and mission design, labeling it as uninteresting and forgettable. Many reviewers, including Worth Playing and TrueAchievements, echo concerns about the repetitive nature of the gameplay and the grindy progression systems in both multiplayer and Zombies modes. Critics like Daily Star and TechRadar Gaming also highlight the reliance on recycled content from previous games, which diminishes the sense of novelty and excitement for long-term players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III has commendable multiplayer and Zombies modes that provide some replay value, the campaign and certain gameplay elements fall short of expectations. Critics like Game Informer and Gamers' Temple emphasize that the campaign lacks depth and motivation for replay, while others note that the multiplayer experience is hindered by a confusing progression system. Despite some positive remarks about nostalgia and engaging multiplayer experiences, the general sentiment leans towards disappointment due to the game's repetitive nature and reliance on past content, indicating that many players may not find sufficient reasons to return after their initial playthroughs.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

71%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

21%

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

In analyzing the overall verdict of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III, it is important to first highlight some of the positives that critics have noted. Several reviewers, including Checkpoint Gaming and NME, acknowledged that the multiplayer mode offers enjoyable experiences, with iconic maps and responsive controls that can engage players. Moreover, Gaming Nexus and Game Rant pointed out that while the campaign may be disappointing, the Zombies mode provides a unique and thrilling experience, adding a layer of enjoyment for fans of the franchise. Movies Games and Tech also mentioned the nostalgia-infused elements and solid gameplay, indicating that these aspects contribute to making the game worth considering for some players. However, the overwhelming sentiment among critics leans towards disappointment, particularly regarding the campaign. Reviewers like PCGamesN and PLAY! Zine described the campaign as boring and unimaginative, with GGRecon criticizing the Open Combat Missions as a significant step backward. Many critics, including Game Informer and Shacknews, referred to the game as a "half-baked expansion" or a "cash grab," suggesting that it lacks the innovation and content expected from a full release. The consensus is that the campaign feels rushed and uninspired, failing to deliver the engaging narrative that fans have come to expect from the series, as echoed by IGN Spain and TrueAchievements. Overall, the critics' consensus on Modern Warfare III is largely negative, with many reviewers expressing that the game does not live up to the legacy of its predecessors. The campaign is frequently cited as one of the weakest in the franchise, leading to a general recommendation for players to wait for discounts before purchasing. Critics like God is a Geek and Press Start Australia emphasized the need for the series to innovate and improve, while others, such as XboxEra and Eurogamer Poland, echoed the sentiment that the game is primarily appealing to hardcore fans rather than offering a compelling experience for newcomers. Thus, while there are redeeming qualities in the multiplayer and Zombies modes, the overall impression is that Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III is a significant letdown for many in the gaming community.

TL;DR

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III offers enjoyable multiplayer and Zombies modes, but critics largely panned the campaign as boring and uninspired, labeling the game as a "cash grab" or "half-baked expansion." With a lack of innovation and a rushed narrative, it fails to meet the series' legacy, leading many reviewers to recommend waiting for discounts. Overall, it's a significant letdown for most players, appealing mainly to hardcore fans.

MONSTER

Reviews

187 reviews found

Forbes

Nov 19, 2023