Ranking the various iterations of the Call of Duty Zombies mode presents a unique challenge. With numerous titles and evolving gameplay mechanics, opinions vary widely among the gaming community. As excitement builds for the upcoming Black Ops 7, now is the perfect time to reflect on the series’ history and determine which entries stand out.
From Undead to Iconic: The Evolution of Zombies
The Zombies mode began as a modest addition to the Call of Duty franchise, but it has since transformed into a major draw for players. Each iteration offers a distinctive take on the undead experience, with some maps and mechanics resonating more with fans than others.
At the bottom of this list is Call of Duty: Vanguard (2021), which struggled to make an impact. Launched amid rushed development, its map, Der Anfang, was criticized as one of the weakest ever introduced. The game deviated from traditional round-based gameplay, offering repetitive objectives instead. Although it found some redemption with Shi No Numa Reborn, the overall experience lacked the depth that players expect from the franchise.
Following closely is Call of Duty: WWII (2017), which aimed to deliver a gritty atmosphere but faltered in execution. The mode was marked by its brutal difficulty, and while it captured the horror of the undead, it struggled with gameplay mechanics that felt unrefined. The Tortured Path map, for example, remains a harrowing experience but often frustrates players rather than engaging them.
Next is Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare (2014). Although it introduced intriguing mechanics with the Exo Zombies mode, it was hampered by being a DLC addition, limiting its accessibility. The additional cost of $75 for the full experience alienated many players. Despite its creative potential, it failed to live up to expectations, leaving gamers craving more from the Zombies experience.
Stepping Up the Game
The original Call of Duty: Black Ops (2010) made significant strides in refining the Zombies formula, building on ideas introduced in World at War (2008). The map design and atmosphere were impressive at the time, particularly the classic Shangri-La. However, it lacked the polish and pacing of later installments, making it feel less robust in comparison.
In contrast, World at War is fondly remembered for its simplicity and purity. The gameplay loop revolved around shooting, surviving, and upgrading without any convoluted systems. Iconic maps like Der Riese and Shi No Numa have left a lasting impact on the franchise.
The Black Ops Cold War (2020) iteration is where the series transitioned into a modernized format. Although it streamlined many mechanics, some players felt it lost the tension and grit of previous games. The inclusion of customizable loadouts was a refreshing change, and the Outbreak mode demonstrated the potential for open-world gameplay.
On a more positive note, Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare (2016) surprised players with its vibrant, campy Zombies mode, Zombies in Spaceland. Featuring a playful aesthetic and an engaging soundtrack, it attracted a diverse player base, even those unfamiliar with the franchise. The creativity of its maps exemplified a successful departure from the traditional horror theme.
The series reached a critical juncture with Black Ops II (2012). This entry solidified Zombies as a key component of the franchise, introducing legendary maps like Mob of the Dead and innovative game modes like Grief and Turned. Players recognized the depth and ambition of this installment, laying the groundwork for future successes.
Finally, Call of Duty: Black Ops III (2015) stands as a pinnacle of the Zombies experience. With meticulously designed maps like Shadows of Evil and Der Eisendrache, it created an immersive environment filled with lore and creativity. The introduction of the Gobblegum system added new layers of strategy, making each session feel thrilling and fresh.
As fans eagerly anticipate the next chapter, the legacy of Call of Duty Zombies continues to evolve. Each installment brings its unique flavor, ensuring that discussions about favorites will persist within the gaming community.
