Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 Review
More Game Info (Print This Article)
Graphics:
8.7
Gameplay:
8.6
Sound:
9.3
Control:
9.0
Replay Value:
9.1
Online Gameplay:
9.5
Overall Rating: 9.0
Publisher:
Activision
Developer:
Infinity Ward, Sledgehammer, Raven
Number Of Players:
1-16
Genre:
FPS
Let me see…how best to introduce the biggest video game since sliced bread? I’m going strictly by the numbers here, so don’t jump down my throat, veteran hardcore gamers. Um…I really can’t come up with a fantastic introduction; all of you know the franchise’s back story, and everybody knows how Call of Duty plays. It’s a first-person shooter. It has a story to play through and multiplayer. That’s the simplified version, of course; now, onto the elaboration, which I know is essential.
While it’s certainly true that CoD desperately needs a new engine, it’s amazing how much mileage the Activision studios have gotten out of it. Despite some of the same old set pieces, what feel suspiciously like reused environments, and some less-than-impressive textures, Modern Warfare 3 still manages to immerse you in a fast-paced warzone that assaults the senses at every turn. Loaded with hectic action from top to bottom, the graphical presentation keeps up with the relentless style, as 60 frames per second is a definite bonus and every explosion makes your head pound.
Which brings us to the audio; the Modern Warfare series has always had fantastic sound, which is why the original title earned our Best Sound award back in 2007. The gunshots, cries on the battlefield, and ambient effects are the highlight of this experience, especially in regards to the campaign. The soundtrack hits you right between the eyes as well, and the entire chaotic virtual world that you inhabit continues to reverberate. I don’t think the voice performances are anything special but man, those effects…
Okay, the campaign— yes, it’s only about 5-6 hours long, but that shouldn’t come as any surprise, especially after MW2 came in at about 4-5. It’s true that last year’s Black Ops fell into the 7-hour range and World at War was even longer, but those were Treyarch productions. When it comes to Infinity Ward, the goals are clear: fast, furious, and in-your face for five or six tumultuous hours of entertainment. Then, because that’s merely a warm-up, it’s on to the most important element: multiplayer.
As some of you already know, the campaign in MW3 is a direct sequel to its predecessor. Soap and Price are back again, but they’re a little banged up and Makarov hasn’t been stopped. You’ll once again attempt to track him down in this epic military hunt that crosses multiple countries, which means you’ll be enjoying quite a few distinct vistas and locales. You’ll be brawling everywhere from New York to Paris and although some may rain on CoD’s parade, the gameplay diversity really keeps things satisfying and refreshing.
It’s not just about running and gunning. The pace never seems to slacken (at least, not for very long), as you’ll be calling in air support, bouncing along in vehicles as explosions rip the landscape to shreds all around you, and engaging in pitched battles in cramped spots that will put your pulse through the damn roof. The story still seems a little…off, I guess, and there’s a whole lot more flash than substance, but the widespread appeal of that well-implemented flash is undeniable.
The biggest problem with the campaign remains its bizarre gameplay glitches that include infinitely spawning foes, and erratic AI that can be appropriately intelligent one second and completely brain-dead the next. Still, I don’t think the AI is any worse than in Battlefield 3; if anything, it’s more dynamic and in some ways, even more challenging. I still think more can be done to add emotional weight to the storyline but hey, I know they require mainstream appeal for ultimate success.
The good news is that if you’re left wanting more after the campaign and you’re not quite ready for multiplayer, you can tackle most of the Spec Ops missions solo. Spec Ops debuted in MW2 and was a great success; it has returned for MW3 and adds flavor and variety to a pretty straightforward albeit rewarding campaign. Not every Spec Ops mission is as frenetic as the single-player action, and we get different types of teamwork options, which is another plus.
Then there’s the multiplayer. If you’re one of the uninitiated, playing for about an hour will initiate you; the pace is ridiculous and with 16 new maps, there’s lots to see and learn. The leveling system works well, there’s a boatload of rewards and in general, the adrenaline rush never stops and you’re always striving to reach the next goal. As you might expect, leveling up unlocks new weapons and perks (for both you and your weapons), so you can customize your play style. You really aren’t forced into any mold.
Perhaps the two biggest upgrades involve the Strike Packages and a couple new modes. The more kills you get, the more skills you unlock in Strike Packages, but IW goes beyond that; here’s where even more customization comes into play: Let’s say you’re not as focused on your KDR (Kill-to-Death ratio, n00b). Maybe you aren’t an offensive dynamo. Well, use the Support Strike, where your kills will remain even if you die. Some may call it cheap, but how else can the new players gain a foothold? It makes them feel better about themselves.
But beyond the sappy crap, you still have to deal with the rampant immaturity that almost seems exclusive to CoD these days. I know you find it everywhere, but with MW3, it’s like every 9-year-old and wife-beating racist on earth has the game. You just have to take solace in the scope and breadth of the multiplayer, which outstrips any other shooter available. Yes, I’d say that even includes Battlefield 3, although I maintain that I love the vehicle element in DICE’s production.
Kill Confirmed quickly turned into one of my favorite modes, just because it really does require a more strategic, team-oriented approach. Honestly, I get a little tired of the all-for-one approach in CoD’s multiplayer, but with Kill Confirmed, you had best work together for the best results. When someone dies, they drop a dog tag but in order to get points, a member of the opposing team has to snag that tag. If an ally picks up his buddy’s tag before the enemy gets to it, that’s like a big ol’ block. De-nied. …not sure why I find that so amusing.
The bottom line is that despite my aversion to multiplayer, it isn’t difficult to see why such a game is so massively popular. Sure, it has a lot to do with marketing and the masses flocking to anything that’s familiar, but people keep playing these games throughout the year for a reason. Infinity Ward obviously put a ton of effort into the multiplayer, as the depth, addictiveness, full-on customization, and a little nod towards teamwork makes MW3 a beast in the world of online gaming.
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 is familiar but hardly boring. The control remains top-notch, the audio is excellent, the developers should be commended for squeezing every last drop out of that engine, and the entertainment level remains high throughout. The campaign is too short (no surprise there), the AI is too erratic (and weird things can still happen when playing), and the story is a little uninspired. But when it comes to over-the-top thrills and plenty of “oh good goddamn” moments, the campaign brings the heat.
Spec Ops adds some variety, too, and in the end, it all comes back to the multiplayer, which is stellar. No two ways about it. So love it, hate it, feel indifferent, whatever…MW3 does what’s expected of it and always tries to jack our heart rates. Take it for what it is.
The Good: Great sound. Relentless, satisfying campaign. Control is usually spot-on. Various, well-designed environments. Spec Ops is a definite boon. Multiplayer is highly customizable, more accessible, and slightly more varied…it’s also awesome.
The Bad: Campign is too short. Engine needs an upgrade. Too much of a “been there, done that” feeling overall.
The Ugly: “These guys aren’t gonna stop coming, are they? …nope. Great.”
11/8/2011 Ben Dutka
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Comments (148 posts)
bigrailer19
Tuesday, November 08, 2011 @ 10:52:07 PM
2 up, 1 down
Nas Is Like
Tuesday, November 08, 2011 @ 9:37:47 PM
Reply
Was expecting a score from 8.5 - 9.0, guess I was right.
Looks like a great review, will read now.
Edit: Great review Ben. Thank you.
Last edited by Nas Is Like on 11/8/2011 9:46:43 PM
8 up, 10 down
FatherSun
Tuesday, November 08, 2011 @ 10:08:13 PM
5 up, 9 down
Nas Is Like
Tuesday, November 08, 2011 @ 10:10:02 PM
They can hate on me or keep thumbing me down, it won't affect me whatsoever.
Last edited by Nas Is Like on 11/8/2011 10:12:29 PM
14 up, 8 down
FatherSun
Tuesday, November 08, 2011 @ 10:22:50 PM
This also applies to the COD masses. Sometimes it can become a cesspool. But damn is the game addictive.
By the way. Nas used to chill in my area before he blew up. Chilling with Wu-Tang types and such. Foxy Brown too! Ahh the good old days...
Last edited by FatherSun on 11/8/2011 10:24:36 PM
6 up, 6 down
Nas Is Like
Tuesday, November 08, 2011 @ 10:31:18 PM
Wow, he really used to chill in your area? That's wicked. Ever met him?
6 up, 6 down
Dancemachine55
Tuesday, November 08, 2011 @ 11:10:22 PM
Helped me make a decision about whether it was worth buying. Since I don't have a CoD on my 360 yet, guess what I picked up on 360 today!!
2 up, 11 down
Dancemachine55
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 3:57:01 AM
I like the split screen multiplayer, very few shooters have 4 player split screen these days. Not a big fan of online versus though, I prefer co-op, working together for the greater good.
2 up, 3 down
FatherSun
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 6:19:10 AM
@Nas, I met him once. On Staten Island aka SHAOLIN! He was collaborating with some Wu-Tang members. Before they recorded Cuban Linx. Before the fame. Him and Foxy were in talks with RZA at the time. Supposedly.
1 up, 2 down
JDC80
Tuesday, November 08, 2011 @ 9:38:34 PM
Reply
20 up, 1 down
Nas Is Like
Tuesday, November 08, 2011 @ 9:47:37 PM
9 up, 0 down
Deleted User
Tuesday, November 08, 2011 @ 9:49:42 PM
I guess they didn't want to start a riot with the 9 year-olds and wife-beating racists who worship the CoD:MW series.
5 up, 0 down
FatherSun
Tuesday, November 08, 2011 @ 10:10:45 PM
Was the review done by the same person. If so.. he needs to be called out on those contradictions.
7 up, 0 down
Dancemachine55
Tuesday, November 08, 2011 @ 11:12:58 PM
Like I said in an Uncharted 3 article, X-Play have completely lost the little bit of respect I had for them. Now they're clearly in it for the CoD gaming audience.
5 up, 0 down
Gamer Girl Gemo
Tuesday, November 08, 2011 @ 11:32:30 PM
1 up, 0 down
Jed
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 12:47:59 AM
3 up, 0 down
Dancemachine55
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 3:59:29 AM
We don't get G4, but Attack of the Show and X-Play screen on Fuel TV, an extreme sports and surfing channel, with a healthy mix of lingerie football and bikini beach late at night. ;)
1 up, 0 down
Darwin1967
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 9:42:53 AM
2 up, 0 down
PasteNuggs
Tuesday, November 08, 2011 @ 9:52:11 PM
Reply
3 up, 0 down
Nas Is Like
Tuesday, November 08, 2011 @ 10:02:23 PM
I'm a big fan of all 3 Modern Warfare installments. As for World at War and Black Ops...not so much. I highly doubt I'll be buying another Treyarch CoD game again.
1 up, 0 down
PasteNuggs
Tuesday, November 08, 2011 @ 10:10:51 PM
2 up, 0 down
FatherSun
Tuesday, November 08, 2011 @ 10:12:57 PM
0 up, 0 down
Nas Is Like
Tuesday, November 08, 2011 @ 10:13:39 PM
0 up, 0 down
WorldEndsWithMe
Tuesday, November 08, 2011 @ 10:38:44 PM
3 up, 2 down
bigrailer19
Tuesday, November 08, 2011 @ 10:54:24 PM
Last edited by bigrailer19 on 11/8/2011 10:54:51 PM
1 up, 0 down
PasteNuggs
Tuesday, November 08, 2011 @ 11:06:49 PM
@World After having to watch COD zombies for the last year I hate it. It's so repetitive and boring.
2 up, 0 down
johnld
Tuesday, November 08, 2011 @ 11:31:36 PM
1 up, 1 down
Jed
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 12:51:54 AM
Actually, there is a zombie mode in MW4.
0 up, 0 down
Clamedeus
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 2:41:15 AM
He's one of those competitive players from Black Ops and MW2, always doing MLG Variant maps and rules, and in Black Ops comp playlists and doing scrims with MLG Pro players, he's definitely good if he can hang with them in game.
But with that aside I liked Black Ops more than MW2, because of the constant tubes and people abusing every exploitable thing possible in MW2, Black Ops seemed more balanced I didn't need to worry about the crap that happened in MW2, MW2 isn't a bad game at all don't get me wrong, it's the players who abused everything that ruined the game for me, I did enjoy MW2 though before people started doing that.
I'm getting MW3 on Friday, how do you guys like it so far? Any problems that arose, anything seem off?
2 up, 0 down
FatherSun
Tuesday, November 08, 2011 @ 10:19:16 PM
Reply
P.S. Shirts.
5 up, 1 down
Yukian
Tuesday, November 08, 2011 @ 11:33:30 PM
0 up, 0 down
Ben Dutka PSXE [Administrator]
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 12:10:53 AM
3 up, 0 down
Beamboom
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 5:27:31 AM
Last edited by Beamboom on 11/9/2011 5:31:48 AM
0 up, 0 down
FatherSun
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 6:32:53 AM
And yes... I meant OBJECTIVE Yukian. Thanks. I usually screen and edit but I was half sleep.
Last edited by FatherSun on 11/9/2011 6:33:46 AM
0 up, 0 down
WorldEndsWithMe
Tuesday, November 08, 2011 @ 10:31:23 PM
Reply
I also saw the cut and paste building from MW1. So sad.
8 up, 0 down
bigrailer19
Tuesday, November 08, 2011 @ 10:55:59 PM
1 up, 0 down
Ben Dutka PSXE [Administrator]
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 12:12:01 AM
Don't listen to haters. They're easy to spot.
8 up, 5 down
bigrailer19
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 1:53:32 AM
Last edited by bigrailer19 on 11/9/2011 1:53:56 AM
1 up, 1 down
Nas Is Like
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 9:59:24 AM
0 up, 0 down
WorldEndsWithMe
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 10:22:33 AM
5 up, 1 down
Underdog15
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 12:41:11 PM
On the other hand, I'm liking the review, here Ben. It seems the transition from MW2 to MW3 is much better than the jump from MW1 to MW2.
Obviously, with new life things going on, I haven't had a chance to play yet, but I will. I haven't been able to finish Uncharted 3 yet either. That comes first... whenever it comes. lol. Not complaining. I'm having a ton of fun, right now. It just has nothing to do with video games.
2 up, 2 down
ImTheMan
Thursday, November 10, 2011 @ 11:17:25 PM
0 up, 0 down
CrusaderForever
Tuesday, November 08, 2011 @ 10:44:01 PM
Reply
The best part of CoD is its controls and fluid gameplay. There is no chop chop in this game.
Also, the support strike packages are welcome addition. They allow you to keep your kill streak alive even if you die. The assault strike package acts like the kill streaks from past CoD games which resets your kill streak when you die. I am not the best player by any means and will have a poor kill/death ratio. So this support strike package allows me to enjoy the kill streaks. So far I have spawned a UAV, SAM Turret and Machine Gun Turret. The SAM Turret is cool because there are always kill streak planes flying over head. It's sweet to see missiles from your SAM Turret streak towards a Stealth Bomber!
My biggest disappointment is the knifing. This has gone unchanged and is still the fast air slash it was in the past. It would have been great to see a KZ3 or BF3 animated stabbing death. Other than that I don't have anything to complain about.
There are 16 maps which I find very generous. They are from many different locals. One thing I really love about CoD is that when you are killed it's so easy to get back in the action. It is unending and exhilirating.
IW and Sledgehammer did a great job. I will be enjoying this one all year. Hopefully Treyarch can come back with a better effort than Black Ops. Zombies is amazing, but they need to do better on the CoD MP component.
Last edited by CrusaderForever on 11/8/2011 10:45:56 PM
3 up, 2 down
Wraith
Tuesday, November 08, 2011 @ 10:51:05 PM
Reply
1 up, 0 down
dkmrules
Tuesday, November 08, 2011 @ 10:58:06 PM
Reply
Last edited by dkmrules on 11/8/2011 10:58:24 PM
5 up, 5 down
bigrailer19
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 1:55:46 AM
1 up, 1 down
Clamedeus
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 2:45:04 AM
That's what I'm going to do, I'm getting MW3, then get BF3 for xmas.
4 up, 0 down
Beamboom
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 5:40:40 AM
Initially I got a bit disappointed by BF3, but now that we've played it some more things are starting to brighten up. The feeling when i started to master flying the copter was such an awesome moment, a sensation of mastering something.
I got a very strong feeling that I will regret trading it in, at least as long as I got buddies with bf3 too.
But yeah, seems I gotta get MW3 too. Looks too good to be missed, and I've not played any cods since MW1.
Last edited by Beamboom on 11/9/2011 5:41:39 AM
0 up, 0 down
Clamedeus
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 6:05:36 AM
I also can't wait to get BF3, I never mastered the art of flying in BC2. :/ But when flying when I had the chance and actually getting kills it was an awesome feeling and thrill to do. :P
Edit: I just remembered something we could do Spec-Ops :D That would be fun to do.
Last edited by Clamedeus on 11/9/2011 6:06:41 AM
0 up, 0 down
Beamboom
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 8:22:12 AM
The art of flying is a tricky one indeed, and I am by no means truly mastering it yet, but at least I no longer crash straight into the ground again right after I take off. :D
Also it helps to have flied RC copters. I know the concept of using the tail rotor and main rotor from before.
The spec-ops missions are reserved for my regular coop buddy ;) But I'm all in for MP gaming!
Last edited by Beamboom on 11/9/2011 8:22:41 AM
0 up, 0 down
AcHiLLiA
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 11:28:49 AM
0 up, 0 down
Jawknee
Tuesday, November 08, 2011 @ 11:00:22 PM
Reply
Last edited by Jawknee on 11/8/2011 11:01:47 PM
5 up, 2 down
WorldEndsWithMe
Tuesday, November 08, 2011 @ 11:03:55 PM
4 up, 1 down
PasteNuggs
Tuesday, November 08, 2011 @ 11:09:00 PM
0 up, 0 down
Jawknee
Tuesday, November 08, 2011 @ 11:11:29 PM
1 up, 0 down
johnld
Tuesday, November 08, 2011 @ 11:34:32 PM
0 up, 0 down
Ben Dutka PSXE [Administrator]
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 12:13:27 AM
Just two very different types of games.
10 up, 2 down
bigrailer19
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 2:03:55 AM
Btw the sound is a lot better in MW3.
Last edited by bigrailer19 on 11/9/2011 2:05:18 AM
3 up, 0 down
Underdog15
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 12:43:41 PM
4 up, 0 down
ImTheMan
Thursday, November 10, 2011 @ 11:21:42 PM
Last edited by ImTheMan on 11/10/2011 11:22:53 PM
1 up, 1 down
WorldEndsWithMe
Tuesday, November 08, 2011 @ 11:02:52 PM
Reply
Last edited by WorldEndsWithMe on 11/8/2011 11:04:51 PM
1 up, 0 down
PasteNuggs
Tuesday, November 08, 2011 @ 11:09:37 PM
0 up, 1 down
Ben Dutka PSXE [Administrator]
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 12:14:50 AM
1 up, 0 down
___________
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 2:56:53 AM
MW3s guns sound like someones shaking a box of nails!
for some reason everytimes theres a massive explosion i get so much static in my headphones too.
uncharted 3 or BF3 though sound freaking amazing!!!!!!!
5 up, 1 down
CrusaderForever
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 7:16:32 AM
I do to! What is that all about! I played BF3 for 3 hours before I picked up my copy of MW3 and it was the first time with my new Sony wireless headphones. Probably the best atmospheric sound I have experienced. I get MW3 home and there is great sound no doubt but there is also terrible static! I hope they fix it since it's all due to the voice chat. When I mute everyone the static goes away.
3 up, 0 down
aaronisbla
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 6:28:48 PM
0 up, 0 down
JDC80
Tuesday, November 08, 2011 @ 11:14:16 PM
Reply
Here's Xplay MW3 Review: http://www.g4tv.com/games/xbox-360/64956/call-of-duty-modern-warfare-3/review/
And here's the Xplay review for "Uncharted 3" http://www.g4tv.com/games/ps3/64706/uncharted-3-drakes-deception/review/
Note my favorite part of reading the review Sessler listed "lives in the shadow of Uncharted 2" as a con.
0 up, 0 down
Gamer Girl Gemo
Tuesday, November 08, 2011 @ 11:22:52 PM
Reply
However, I still plan to end up getting this game eventually. The sad thing is that me and a few other guys I work with down at GameStop agreed that they were getting MW3 just because their friends were. IMO, that's just kind of sad that a game does so well just because many people try to stay on the bandwagon, me ashamedly being one of them. I guess that's how the CoD series just works nowadays.
Last edited by Gamer Girl Gemo on 11/8/2011 11:26:26 PM
8 up, 0 down
Clamedeus
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 6:11:11 AM
1 up, 0 down
godsdream
Tuesday, November 08, 2011 @ 11:40:24 PM
Reply
What a rip off!!!
Last edited by godsdream on 11/8/2011 11:43:30 PM
6 up, 3 down
Ben Dutka PSXE [Administrator]
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 12:15:36 AM
3 up, 3 down
godsdream
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 12:20:31 AM
there is a video in that page explaining PERFECTLY what I'm trying to explain, please check it out Ben. I'm not just shouting this out without facts or blinded by hate or something. And also, read the last paragraph just down the video, they just read my mind there, that's what bothers me too, what they explain there.
Sorry for the link there, but it's quicker than to put all my full explanation here, which happens to be the exact same way as that site.
Last edited by godsdream on 11/9/2011 12:26:00 AM
3 up, 1 down
Ben Dutka PSXE [Administrator]
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 12:43:09 AM
Look, of course nothing is innovative about MW3. But very few games offer anything we haven't seen before. We are NOT allowed to pick and choose the games we can reprimand for not doing something new; MOST games don't do anything new.
I'm sorry, but that review is flawed. That's just my opinion.
4 up, 3 down
godsdream
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 12:48:22 AM
And to the other point, think of it as Balad of gay Tony and the other one I don't remember the name (something lost and damned) of GTA4 expansions.
The examples you give, they always improve in a big way with graphics. Again, I know that a new game doesn't need to have better graphics than last one (tho it is great when it does). But the bottom line is that I think it's an extremely overrated game with nothing new in it, and to make it worse, it has elements that were just copied and pasted (on purpose) it from a game now considered a little old.
Last edited by godsdream on 11/9/2011 12:53:50 AM
3 up, 0 down
79transam
Friday, November 11, 2011 @ 5:34:36 AM
0 up, 0 down
LimitedVertigo
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 12:23:49 AM
Reply
2 up, 0 down
Ben Dutka PSXE [Administrator]
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 12:49:28 AM
Reply
I would've liked nothing better than to give the game a 7 and get all sorts of traffic and attention. Hell, Destructoid has been assigning ridiculous scores for the sake of traffic for years. But I have an obligation to put aside any biases I may have and simply view this game as I would view any other game.
And I would think gamers would demand that. Calling MW3 an "expansion" is stupid. it just is. I'm well aware it's using the same engine since 2005 and I make mention of that old engine in the review. The mechanics haven't changed much either, but then again, mechanics in FPSs don't really change much, if at all.
The multiplayer is what matters most and MW3 is a cut above most everything out there, with the customization, massive amount of rewards, and completely addictive style that is accessible and entertaining for vast numbers of people. See, people don't play a game online for countless hours because they want to support Activision, or because they want to go online and act like a fanboy. They do it because it's fun.
The campaign is nothing like Black Ops and offers one solid roller-coaster experience, with a few of the same problems (outdated AI, for instance) we find in Battlefield 3. People can hate it all they want. But if they're desperately pointing out flaws without acknowledging the positives, that's the very definition of subjective bias.
There's a reason the game is averaging close to a 9. There's a reason many of the major sources gave it a high score, and I promise you it has nothing whatsoever to do with payoffs or conspiracy theories or anything of that sort. You accept 9s for other games. Just accept this one, as I didn't approach it any differently. :)
Last edited by Ben Dutka PSXE on 11/9/2011 12:49:48 AM
19 up, 3 down
godsdream
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 1:10:27 AM
And I accept as always your reviews, in fact, now that I think of it, this is the first one I disagree with. I also accept the good sides of this game, but that doesn't mean I also have to put them. I'm not trying to be unbalanced or blinded or biased, just letting my mind out in some aspects. For me this game is a solid 8.2 overall (for me a game that has at least an 8 its great and worth it).
Glad to see you make your points and try to explain it more and etc. It just confirms this is one of the best sites for gaming. Keep the good work.
Last edited by godsdream on 11/9/2011 1:16:44 AM
2 up, 0 down
Lawless SXE
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 2:42:46 AM
That's really all there is to be said. Thanks for yet another great review, Ben.
3 up, 0 down
Shams
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 8:57:05 AM
That being said, your review has piqued my interest. I'll give the game a try at some point.
1 up, 0 down
slugga_status
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 9:25:09 AM
1 up, 0 down
WorldEndsWithMe
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 10:26:48 AM
2 up, 0 down
Underdog15
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 1:00:30 PM
I think everyone here knows my feeling about the CoD effect on the industry, or at least my opinion of what has happened. But that is something driven more by the consumer than the developer.
I have also been complaining lately about games that try to be something it isn't. And I fully believe that sequels, although should be improved upon, should maintain similar feel and gameplay to the previous game. Granted, many reviewers are hypocrites who would praise MW3 and curse others like WKC2 or UC3 for the same thing. But if a sequel plays the way you expect it to, and it plays the way it is supposed to be played, and it does it well, you can't give it anything but a decent score.
It should be interesting in time to see what people learn to exploit and whether or not IW supports the game with regular patches. Hopefully the community doesn't destroy the game before too long, either.
But, based on what you wrote in your review, I can accept the score given with respect. I appreciate the objectiveness within, and I appreciate that you addressed every concern people may have. Clearly, the positive outweighs the negative, and so, I'm inclined to believe in the 9, despite not yet playing it.
Either way, thanks for giving us an honest and good understanding of what to expect.
3 up, 0 down
Qubex
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 1:44:09 AM
Reply
Long term I feel Battlefield 3 will mature like a fine wine.
Q!
"play.experience.enjoy"
3 up, 0 down
bigrailer19
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 2:09:59 AM
Last edited by bigrailer19 on 11/9/2011 2:10:24 AM
0 up, 0 down
Beamboom
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 5:51:59 AM
But yeah, I too firmly believe that bf3 will mature like a fine wine. It just is a lot more to get into, but I dig that. I shall spend a lot of time in this game.
At the same time, while not having played mw3 yet I realize now that I got to get that one too. It seems the king remains on the throne, and after all, I had hours upon hours of fun in both mw2 and in particular waw (made me rediscover mp gaming). I needed a break from it but now I am ready for the cod-circus again. :)
Last edited by Beamboom on 11/9/2011 5:53:29 AM
0 up, 0 down
bigrailer19
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 2:13:40 AM
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I played a few moments of the campaign, it's fast paved and fun. I also jumped onto the MP and was quickly reminded why I love to play the games, and why the games are so popular.
0 up, 0 down
Lawless SXE
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 2:44:47 AM
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0 up, 0 down
Beamboom
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 5:55:50 AM
1 up, 0 down
JohnnyKey
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 2:57:36 AM
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Thanks Ben for the review, I will most certainly be coming here for my ps3 reviews from now on.
4 up, 0 down
Beamboom
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 5:56:31 AM
2 up, 0 down
Ben Dutka PSXE [Administrator]
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 10:13:08 AM
2 up, 0 down
___________
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 2:59:54 AM
Reply
big set pieces in every single level, i feel like im in a michael bay film!
i wish they would stop with the switching between a million characters though it makes it really hard to follow the story.
tbh i have no freaking clue what the hells going on!
i preferred the way treyarch presented BOs story that was really clever.
also they could of done allot more with the story, make it a much grander feel.
ive been waiting forever for a game to take on the WW3 concept, execpt this does not feel like WW3.
it feels like a bunch of pissed off terrorist groups!
it just does not have the grand scale to make it feel as if the whole world is down each others throats!
0 up, 8 down
Lawless SXE
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 4:15:58 AM
2 up, 0 down
Beamboom
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 5:58:52 AM
Not even I would dare make such a statement, no matter how much I had meant it. Haha, I am literary laughing out loud here. You are a wonderful weirdo. :D
Last edited by Beamboom on 11/9/2011 6:01:16 AM
6 up, 0 down
Lotusflow3r
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 6:55:41 AM
Your posts are mental!
A Michael Bay movie!? What, you want a game to feel like a massive laughing stock? He's one of the worst film makers in history.
And Uncharted hard to follow? Lmao.
6 up, 0 down
___________
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 8:45:46 AM
well that and its immense polish.
take half of them out and your left with nothing!
the gameplay is so much better in 3 but they have lost the whole point of the game.
its like Ferrari building the most beautiful car ever made.
the lighest car ever made.
everything about it is a world first and is 100% perfect.
then they go put a 4 cylinder in it that has a top speed of 140MPH.
thats uncharted 3, without the insane speed Ferraris are pointless!
without the big set pieces uncharted is pointless!
0 up, 8 down
Shams
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 9:17:54 AM
Then, there's even the technical side of things that I appreciate, like when we consider the boat stage is not just a scripted event, or a shifting platform or camera, but a dynamic physics engine that is recalculating as the sea acts on the boat and boat acts on the objects on the boat. Or the creative efforts, like how one mp map takes place on a bunch of moving vehicles as they board on to the cargo plane.
Uncharted is clearly on a different tier.
3 up, 0 down
Ben Dutka PSXE [Administrator]
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 10:13:33 AM
9 up, 1 down
Darwin1967
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 3:28:22 AM
Reply
0 up, 0 down
Beamboom
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 6:02:28 AM
Last edited by Beamboom on 11/9/2011 6:03:02 AM
0 up, 1 down
Beamboom
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 8:24:11 AM
Last edited by Beamboom on 11/9/2011 8:24:30 AM
1 up, 0 down
Dancemachine55
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 4:07:33 AM
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Don't worry, I'm one of them. Hypocrite number 1 right here!
Let's face it, it's like the Transformers movies. You can bag it out for being too shallow and catered towards teen boys, but for spectacle and adrenaline rushed fun? Can't go any better than your Summer blockbuster or yearly CoD installment.
Just find it cheap somewhere and enjoy!
P.S. Has anyone noticed a distinct lack of DRM from Activision? I guess sales are high enough for them not to worry about preowned sales or copied DLC.
1 up, 2 down
Lawless SXE
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 5:35:57 AM
1 up, 0 down
Lotusflow3r
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 6:56:44 AM
Reply
There....that should calm everyone down.
Last edited by Lotusflow3r on 11/9/2011 6:57:13 AM
5 up, 1 down
slugga_status
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 11:29:04 AM
4 up, 1 down
kellett007
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 7:48:57 AM
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0 up, 0 down
Monkeysnarf
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 8:53:11 AM
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The thing about BF3 vs MW3 is they are both great games. (Multiplayer only. I haven't played the campaign.) BF3 may even be better if you compared every espect of the game point for point with MW3. It looks great, it sounds great. The only problem is, MW3 is more fun to play.
I've played BF3 for 2 weeks and MW3 for 2 hours and I can already tell which game I'm going to spend all my time playing. I still think BF3 was worth $60 for those 2 weeks I spent playing it, but that might just be a great game that never gets anymore play time. I think at think point if you didn't pick up BF3 there really is no point in getting it; unless you've always been a fan of Battlefield and never cared for CoD. In that case it is a fantastic game.
MW3 is everything I wanted. I wanted MW2 that just added a little more stuff but didn't mess with anything that made everyone put so much time into it. The more people say it's just like MW2 but with different guns, maps, perks and kill streaks, the more I say good; I'm glad they didn't try to fix what's not broken.
Bottom line is MW3 is a fun game and worth the money. It's straight up fun.
0 up, 0 down
Clamedeus
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 9:13:59 AM
1 up, 0 down
TrophyHunter
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 9:15:56 AM
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3 up, 0 down
vicious54
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 9:41:02 AM
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I picked up the game last night and played it with a couple of my buddies. I for one feel the game has made some improvements with the audio and visuals. The whole online structure has changed a bit as well. The maps so far have been a blast but I haven't found a map that I wanted to snipe a whole round yet.
I'm fairly decent at the game so if you want to play add me, Vicious54.
Last edited by vicious54 on 11/9/2011 9:41:34 AM
0 up, 1 down
raptassassin
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 9:58:22 AM
Reply
3 up, 1 down
WorldEndsWithMe
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 10:28:36 AM
Reply
5 up, 1 down
Ben Dutka PSXE [Administrator]
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 10:40:17 AM
But that's perfectly fine. Naughty Dog just refined everything even further, which makes it a masterpiece.
3 up, 1 down
TrophyHunter
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 12:33:46 PM
2 up, 0 down
JLB1
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 12:46:06 PM
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2 up, 0 down
DjEezzy
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 12:48:41 PM
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1 up, 1 down
Underdog15
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 1:03:39 PM
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EBGames has a used copy of MW3... not even 54.99... it's $57.99....
Disgraceful. lol
3 up, 0 down
j587
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 2:04:28 PM
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0 up, 0 down
bigrailer19
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 5:12:19 PM
0 up, 0 down
D1g1tal5torm
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 3:51:07 PM
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I love my twitch gaming.
Fast, intense and addictive.
1 up, 1 down
bigrailer19
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 5:13:16 PM
1 up, 0 down
Akuma07
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 5:40:36 PM
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There have been multiple times when I was playing the game that I thought "wait, isn't this the **** map from MW1?" Seriously! so many of the multiplayer maps look like they were taken straight out of the last two MWs and changed a bit.
1 up, 0 down
D1g1tal5torm
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 7:12:47 PM
That's where cod excels beyond all others.
0 up, 1 down
Clamedeus
Thursday, November 10, 2011 @ 9:55:07 AM
0 up, 0 down
Lairfan
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 6:22:44 PM
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And before anyone brings up Uncharted 3, yeah, it didn't do anything astoundingly new and innovative, but it did add a whole hell of a lot more to its gameplay than CoD did (and that gameplay is of much higher quality too). Plus, its got a much much much better campaign, and is pretty much on a higher level than CoD will ever be IMO.
2 up, 0 down
D1g1tal5torm
Wednesday, November 09, 2011 @ 7:07:27 PM
I'm not knocking it - UC is all about the sense of adventure and the way it's told. In that respect nothing's changed in all three versions.
Last edited by D1g1tal5torm on 11/9/2011 7:10:21 PM
0 up, 0 down
booze925
Thursday, November 10, 2011 @ 12:46:05 AM
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but i read no mention of the survival mode in spec ops, which is by far the best new entry in MW3 IMHO...
0 up, 0 down
Underdog15
Thursday, November 10, 2011 @ 9:11:35 AM
Not about survival mode specifically, but he does indicate there is more to spec ops this time around. :)
0 up, 0 down
mousekiks
Thursday, November 10, 2011 @ 1:47:58 PM
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1 up, 0 down
riptide8
Thursday, November 10, 2011 @ 2:20:01 PM
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Last edited by riptide8 on 11/10/2011 2:22:31 PM
0 up, 0 down
Widow Maker
Friday, November 11, 2011 @ 1:14:13 AM
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EDIT: Great review Ben! It was honest! And spot on!!
Last edited by Widow Maker on 11/11/2011 1:15:38 AM
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OPHIDIAN
Monday, November 21, 2011 @ 7:17:05 PM
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I have really enjoyed these MWs. I knew I was going to get MW3 so didn't watch / read anything about it beforehand. The first thing you see in single player is 'WW3' transition into 'MW3.' Having played the first two games and knowing this is what we were desperately trying to avoid was quite deep.
Well done Infinity Ward, another great game.
I just feel sorry for those that will miss this game due to the senseless metacritic user reviews.
0 up, 0 down
FatherSun
Reply
Tuesday, November 08, 2011 @ 8:55:39 PM
9 is a great score. I will be trying the campaign in a few moments myself.
Last edited by FatherSun on 11/8/2011 8:56:54 PM